Do you remember the "Goosebumps" series of books by R.L. Stein? This seems like it was meant to be the first chapter in one of those books. Not dark enough to be considered horror, though perhaps it could have been until the thing in the box appeared. It's interesting, and it makes a pretty good quick read. In summary, I'd say it holds the reader's attention with ease; I kind of wish there was more, you know?