Yes, I have also read this book. I found it very different and a bit spooky but was intrigued and reread it immediately to see if I had missed anything. If you have not already done so, then read "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak which is another amazing and unusual book. Also "Star of the Sea" by Joseph O'Connor. Both of those are as near perfect as is possible and if you appreciate excellent writing and accurate historical background, then the latter is unequalled in my opinion. If any of you Abers have read either of them please add your opinion... XX