I saw that the movie was added to Netflix, so I decided to read the book first. I was worried that the book, being written from the perspective of a five year old, would be limited in its narrative. It wasn't. Jack is present during all the important events that happen in the lives of him and his mother. (view spoiler)[Living in a very small room. His mother being held hostage for seven years, tricked and captured. Being raped every night, while Jack is in the wardrobe, counting the squeaks of the bed. It's heartbreaking. (hide spoiler)] Beautifully written in the words of a small, intelligent boy. The movie I recommend as well. Some things were changed of course, but the overall feel I got of the book was the same as in the movie. Moreover, it gives you a better sense of how small the room is for instance and what happens all around Jack.