This was a very odd but very interesting book--or books, I suppose, since it was sort of like four books in one. I was impressed by Valente's imagination and use of language; every page brought fresh images and vivid wordings. I enjoyed this book, although in some ways it was a little frustrating (many pieces of the narrative are missing, and the further into the book you get, the greater the lapses become), and I look forward to reading the sequel (which sadly doesn't come out until November!).