I had two different friends give me this book (usually a good sign) and it was awesome.
Not only is it a great book, I grew up in the spot that is mentioned it (neither of my friends knew that).....so, that made it even cooler.
About 15 years after first reading it, I was lucky to get the author to sign it. When I told him I grew up at that spot, he got a startled smile on his face.