I watched the series without having read the book first. Yes it seemed a little slow at the start and confusing but I persisted as I felt the atmosphere the film makers painted was worth the effort. Without going into detail I got drawn right into the love story, the horror and the fantasy aspect, and how it delved into mental illness and "cutting". Particularly like the scene where the band under the tree began playing "Too Late to Turn Back Now" by Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose. The series drew me right into the characters and the fantasy of Booya Moon in particular the scenes around the pool with the sombre figures sitting silently and so forlorn. Rather than comparing it to the book or analyzing it I simply enjoyed it for the fantasy and being drawn away into a world very reminiscent of my own childhood. By the closing scene I was silently applauding and grateful that I had taken the time and patience to watch such a wonderfully crafted story. The cinematography lent so much to the creation of atmosphere and fantasy and was mesmerizing to say the least. One of the better series I've seen this year and certainly memorable. Julianne Moore, Clive Owens, and in fact the entire cast gave an outstanding performance worthy of an academy award as an ensemble piece in my opinion. If you enjoyed the Green Mile, Shaw Shank Redemption or The Mist you'll like the style of storytelling in this piece.