For starters I just want to thank Mr. Quinn for writing a simple book about life. I picked up Ismael on a hunch and the help of the reviews such as this one. This novel is just a great pick me up. It fills the whole that you've been missing in your head. It's a very quick read, about three days for me. Keep in mind this is the first book I have read in about 3 yrs. And now I am a certified book worm. This book helped me realize that reading is the best for one's soul. It may sound a little cliche, however I finally see the truth.