First off, if you haven't read this, go add it to your reading list now. This short tale is every bit as good as To Kill a Mockingbird or Huckleberry Finn. If you are into audio books, this one is read by Pulitzer prize winning author Donna Tartt, who absolutely nails it.

This book has excellent descriptive language, snappy dialogue and also quite a bit of wry humor. The main action takes place in the late 1870s, and as a portrayal of that time period, I believe this is very well done. Language, location, and characters (with comical names like LaBoeuf - pronounced La Beef - and Lawyer Daggett) are all excellent.

No, I haven't seen the new movie, and have only seen portions of the original on afternoon westerns as a kid. I understand both are pretty good in their own ways, but I am (as always) glad I read the book first. The reprint contains an essay (by Donna Tartt) describing her view of the novel, along with its impact on multiple generations. Critics call it the great American novel. Highly recommended!