Thanks for the reply, father.
I know it sounds like walking the fence but I to agree both are great in their own ways.
With that said I do prefer the movie over the book but only slightly. I think one of the reasons is that I saw the movie many times before I read the book. Knowing the story well resulted in a less scary and suspenseful read imo. otoh I was frightened badly by the masturbation scene from the book.
cheers
John