This first novel by one of America's premier short story writers (renamed after it was made into a popular movie with this name in 1979) is one of the best looks at disenchanted youth since 'Catcher In The Rye' in the 50's & 'Catch-22' in the 60's. Effortlessly perceptive & revealing, with a wry humor & warmth, it is a story both funny & sad, beautiful & biting.