I bought this book at a fundraiser, and didn't realize until I started reading it several weeks later that it is an abridged version aimed at helping improve reading skills. So, I still haven't really read A Town Like Alice. This edition provides, basically, a plot summary with a little dialogue thrown in.

Given its objective, the book is well done. There are lots of notes defining words a beginning reader (or reader learning English) might find challenging; and good discussion questions at the end to test comprehension. And the plot, as condensed, remains interesting. ( )