While not unexpected, this book is so much better than the film, as film doesn't allow us to share headspace with Norman. I always read that Norman Bates was based on Ed Gein, but I never really got that from the film. The novel drives that comparison home. Thanks (?), Bloch, for making Gein part of the cultural awareness. 
 The bit with the human drum at the beginning was pure lurid horror comic territory. The two views of the strip tease was simultaneously delightful 50's cheesecake while pointing out the problems with the male gaze. It's a fast and fun read and worth the time.