One of my favorite books as a child, easy to read and very touching. Read it the first time as a sophomore at High School while practicing a speed reading technique. The high speed of reading enhanced the effect that the the story had on me, while the tears in my eyes slowed down my newly acquired reading pace. I have reread the story a number of times and was thrilled when I came across a new paperback to replace the book that I had lost many years ago. This is truly an exciting tale of love and adventure that I recommend to all, young and old alike. ( )