This slender little book is a charmer. Its length belies the incredible complexity of the story within its pages. Meet Thomas, a young boy who sees things others cannot. He sees the inner beauty of the world around him. He sees beyond Eliza's leather leg and missing fingers to see the glorious person within. He sees beyond Mrs. Van Amersfoort's reputation as a witch to find a friend who will help Thomas escape from the brutal real world in which he is forced to witness his abusive father and cowed mother. Because of his "vision", Thomas is able to confront his fears and defeat his foes. This is one of those gems that deserve rereading. I suspect that each read will reveal more and more layers, more textures, more of EVERYTHING.