The novel has a few different story lines, but they eventually converge. The narrative is definitely very interesting, providing the details of the lives of the major characters from their childhood through adulthood.
When the book was published, it gained popularity overnight and most of the reviews were highly positive. The book has continued to gain popularity since its publication and it has never gone out of print up to this day. The book has received several literary awards and nominations.
Its readers, particularly the young adults, keep spreading good word about this novel.
