'holes' was initially an unusual read! Aimed at 12+ year olds, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as a 50 + year old. It was a happy, laughing story! The character's names and the plot of filling in holes and then digging out holes is amusing. The lesson learnt by Stanely is rewarding.

Every piece of information that the author gives in the telling of the story in the first half of the story starts to fall into place as the story progresses. A skilful writer and a story that will remain with you. If you've seen the film forget it! The book is so much better. All of the characters have something to add to the story. It's only as the story progresses that we learn that Stanley is more involved than we could possibly imagine. Much, much more than digging holes in a desert. A story within a story! Even the cover picture hides an interesting puzzle piece in the story. A really powerful story that everyone will love.

Such a good story. Entwines a story in the present, far into the past. Keeps you guessing and wondering and leaves you realising so much! Good moral story too. Suitable for children. One of the most enjoyable reads I've read for a while (I'm 47 lol).