I found the book interesting ,engrossing , and compelling. I got hands on this book at an auction in an old book store where they were discarding the damaged old books. I especially liked the old man's character and the whole stage setting and not to forget the way the friendship between that little girl who gets shelter at the lamplighter's place and that boy grows into a special bond and also engulfs gradually that old man also. Book well written and presented nicely ...... a must read.