Neufeld's masterful use of simple language [in Sleep Two, Three, Four!] to build suspense enhances the reading. The author rarely wastes words. His descriptions of events collide with one another or smoothly overlap, creating varying degrees of tension in a reader. Only once does the author's description of political events and feelings threaten to slow the pace of the novel. At this point Rafe, a nearly blind Indian, has provided shelter for the group in a secret cave. Rafe's explanation of political facts unknown to these young people reveals more background for their actions than the reader really needs to know.

The simple purpose of the group's journey keeps the plot trim and direct. But the author develops his characters through their contributions to the rescue attempt. (p. 305)

Sleep Two, Three, Four! needs to be read in a single sitting. The characters plunge headlong into their adventure, too...