This story of a 13 year old girl all alone in the world is heartbreaking, until you realize that she is NOT a normal girl. Her keen intelligence and maturity draw you in and, while you feel sympathy for her, you are also a little scared just the same. This short, yet utterly sinister story will have all readers hooked until the end. I've had this book for years and re-read it all the time. Must have for suspense-enthusiasts.