I'm not sure how to describe this book. Is it a shattering of innocence, a coming of age story, a mystery, a suspense novel or is it all of these? I was drawn into the story immediately by the short terse prose, the descriptions of the countryside and the dialogue and actions of the young children in the story. Ammaniti, has captured with accuracy the actions and thoughts of a child who is caught in an adult situation. As the reader you are viewing the events from the eyes of nine year old Michelle and you feel the same confusion and detachment that he does when placed in a situation where an incredible event is occuring. As he learns more and sees more from the actions of his parents and the other adults around him be begins to understand what is really happening and can no longer remain detached. He can no longer remain neutral, he must act. The book moves along at a quick pace and ends in a nail biting climax. This was a good story with beautiful detail and a realistic portrayal of a nine year olds reactions and thoughts. I really enjoyed this book