This is a page turner and proof of the power of great characters. The plot is sparse but the setting and characters are so gripping and intelligent that the book takes on an addictive quality. Of course, like all great books I had a sense of longing after I read the last pages and I felt like I knew the characters so well I might be able to catch up with them later in life. I completely recommend this book. If you do read it I dare you not to imagine Henry being played by Benedict Cumberbatch.