. . . because this book is full of intriguing, lively characters who really do leap from the page. I am excited about the innovation shown here because as I read I felt disjunction without feeling confused. That's a plus (which many attempt and do not achieve). It definitely drives the more intellectual points home. And, at the same time, the disjunction never gets in the way of the bizarre story that is unfolding. The artwork interspersed throughout the text adds visual impact that cannot be fully explained -- it melds with the mood of the narrative. It's absolutely fantastic. I have never seen anthing else like this. And, I was also pleased to find that I didn't have to know anything about Japan or Japanese culture to appreciate this. It stands boldly on its own.