When I was a little boy I used to hear this all the time. I just loved the plot, the characterization, everything. Now I’m older (20) and I still love the book even though I’m hardly part of the target audience. It’s definitely mostly because of nostalgia, but still – it’s the only book, I’ve cried myself to sleep because of at my current age. Most of all I love the bittersweet ending, which have always accomplished to make me feel that the journey is more important than the destination; that you’re going to miss out on life if you are constantly looking forward instead of enjoying the moment; that some day it’s all behind you…

This book covers all the important aspects and pitfalls of writing a dramatic novel. If that’s your goal this is a great place to start. Of course it can’t cover the subjects as deeply as more dedicated books, but it never feels superficial, and gives a great general view of the subject