It's a slim volume, but as usual Brunner works wonders with only half the word count most writers need to tell the same story. I don't know what it is, but I find I greatly prefer those slim paperbacks, especially from the late 60s and 70s, even from a purely aesthetic viewpoint. While I occasionally enjoy a three or four hundred page epic I tend to be more impressed with a book that is slim and succinct. It's merely my opinion, but spare writing that is straightforward suggests more of a mastery of language. I agree, Jamie and Joe.
Brevity is often the soul of wit.
Although admittedly sometimes brevity can also be the soul of shit. I think there's a twelve-step programme for you folks. Brunner had a gift for creating believable future societies. I wouldn't worry, Lenora. There's a big market right now for long fantasy novel and series that never end.