The fact that Peter S. Beagle wrote this book when he was only nineteen only really shows how masterful he is when it comes to compelling emotional storytelling. Though it does have some of the growing pains first novels typically have, such as a shaky story structure and dense writing, you still find yourself connecting so deeply to these characters. They philosophize, they struggle, they try to find meaning in their lives or deaths while also trying to decipher if there really is any meaning to be found at all. 

It's a slow read that's more reflective and gets into the inner turmoil of the characters. The living have their issues with some aspect of life and trying to find some sort of comfort in the dead, while the dead try to find solace in matters usually left to the living. The book moves from one big discussion to another, so it's very character driven. 

If you liked The Last Unicorn and are willing to pick up another one of his books that focuses more on internal conflicts and reflection, then absolutely go for this one.