This book has incredible voice. I would almost recommend it for that reason alone. Donoghue did a great job of depicting Jack, the 5-year old narrator of the story, and developing his character. I also like how dark the story is in nature, but much of it is either filtered out or softened because it is told by Jack's perspective. It was hard to remember how young he is at times because, despite living his life in an 11x11 foot shack, he is well-developed cognitively. If you're interested in the story, I recommend reading the book in 1-2 sittings. It's very fast and mind-opening.

So similar to Cleveland horror show...what happens to a child and his mother when they are finally free...

Oh, wow. Seven years ago, a girl was abducted by a predator and kept locked in a shed. She has borne a son in captivity, and the story is written from his perspective starting on his fifth birthday. Room is all Jack knows of the world, but Ma is restless and begins to tell Jack stories about Outside. Will they ever escape? Does Jack even want to? The author (unlike many) is VERY good at writing like a child, while still conveying a lot to adult readers who can read between the lines. The subject matter is not graphic, gross or depressing, because Ma did a good job of shielding Jack from the darker realities of their situation. This is one of those books where I stayed up late at night reading over 100 pages a day just to find out what happens next.

Fantisic book! From start to finished I was hooked. It was nice to read a book with an original plot and fantastic writing. this is an easy read, great for a day at the beach.

i love this book very sad story but a very great story

Kidnapped 7 years ago, a woman & her son live in a small backyard shed. Disturbing at first, then riveting!

I could not put this book down. It was fascinating to see through the eyes of a 5-year-old boy, living in such a small area. This book was truly about him and his everyday childhood affairs. Yes, the larger picture is a rather grim and dark situation, but this story shows the resilience of children and how things can look from their innocent perspective. I love narratives that have an odd or unusual point of view and this book delivered on nail-biting, intense page-turning 'til the very end. LOVED IT!

Why would anyone want to pick up this sick story from the news and make a novel?

This book has definitely keep me thinking long after the last page. I was afraid the story line was was going to be rather anti-climatic but it really grabbed a hold of me and sucked me in. I loved seeing the world through the perspective of someone who is very intelligent, but has no understanding of what really happens. GREAT read, and highly recommended.

Knowing the premise, I was wary of this book, that I would find it too depressing or unbearable, but that is absolutely not the case. I found I couldn't put it down, and it didn't end at all the way I thought it would.