I did not find this book to be interesting and it did not grasp my attention. I did not think that the characters were developed very well. I did not feel for the bird man or any of the other characters and their tragic lives. However, Sandra Benitez is a wonderful person and instructor. I am still looking forward to reading The Weight of all Things. I would love to read a book about her life growing up in Latin America as well. I am sorry to have to give Ms. Benitez a rating of a 2. If you want to read the work of Ms. Benitez do not start with this book.