After reading the reviews the book that I read was not what I expected. I really had to commit myself to it and would not allow myself to move onto something else until it was complete. It was compelling in areas and I learned from it but it was slow in spots and mired in minute detail. It did bring me to tears towards the end and with the acute description, you felt that you were part of the scene. This is certainly a dedicated and loving son and I would hope that my sons have this level of bond in my later years.