Another re-read of a classic adventure. I have read this many times, and led players through it several times as well, each time a bit better than the last.

For a beginning Dungeon Master, this module (and many other AD&D modules at the time) could be a bit overwhelming. There is a lot of text, and no real text boxes of information to be read, as the basic and expert lines had at the time (such as Keep on the Borderlands). I encountered this module very early on, before I really knew the difference between Dungeons & Dragons and Advanced Dungeons & Dragons.

Overall, I really like the way that Gary presents his material, but it does require a lot of mental agility for the Dungeon Master to assimilate, and to coordinate. For the village, the Dungeon Master needs to be aware of the many personalities in the village, and how they are connected to different powers in the region. Also, a better understanding of the geography then simply looking at the map (which is good, but also a bit overwhelming) is very helpful for a better playing experience.

The back picture on the color cover is one of the iconic pictures for me of Dungeons & Dragons, with the jovial and welcoming magic-user, and the taciturn fighter.

I am looking forward to starting another new campaign, with the module being the ground rock for it. ( )