This is a dark and compelling read. As you progress through the story the mind of Gasper is slowly revealed, and his self imposed exile to the mountain feels perfectly natural for his character. It's a look into a sociopath, possible schizophrenic, mind. Thoughout the book it's easy to both have sympathy for and loathe Gasper. The short nature of the book is apt for the character, I don't think a full novel would be as good, recommended for an afternoon read on a gloomy day.