This short novel doesn't have the trademark King violence or eeriness, but it does have a healthy dose of magical realism. The main character is dealing with a strange weight loss issue while his neighbors are dealing with a nasty case of discrimination. The two stories intertwine to provide a satisfying conclusion. I was intrigued by the reviews, and I was happy to see the level of storytelling King accomplishes in under 150 pages. I highly recommend this title - not because I agree with everything it presents, but because it forces the reader to question their own biases. It would be a great title for book clubs because of its compact nature and because of the issues it brings to light.

Something is happening to Scott Carey that cannot be explained. According to the scale he is loosing weight at about one pound a day, however, his body shape is not changing and whether or not he is wearing clothes his weight is the same. He is also in a disagreement with his next door neighbors. Scott chooses not to let anyone know what is going on except for his retired Doctor friend and eventually the couple next door.
This was an interesting enough story, not horror, with some thoughtful undertones.