Questions about Sony HVL-20 flash

I'm sure there's been discussion of this flash before but my search turned up nothing. I know forum members will help me out.

Obviously, there are better (stronger) flashes but I think I'm only interested in the HVL-20. I have no complaints about the power of the built in flash on my Sony a65 and a57. I want something that will bounce the flash across the living room Christmas day, bouncing off an 8' ceiling to a subject 15 or 20 feet away. I really don't want anything larger than the HVL-20 or anything that requires complicated settings.

My questions are,........ will this small flash unit give me the same range, using bounce, that I get straight away with my Sony Alphas? Does it basically function automatically after raising it?

Any user comments appreciated. I want to get this flash in time for Christmas. Thanks!

Jack