Totally enjoyable pulp fiction. Not trailblazing by any accord, but a nice Japanese version of the deus ex machina as brilliant, random, late-coming character. Also notable simply for (as an american reader) the subtle insights and notes upon the Japanese social exchanges that, in most other renderings (on screen mostly), are glossed over, presumably because they are difficult to westernize. Who knew it was customary to apologize for the shabbiness and clutter in your home to your guest, no matter how spotless and lovely your home was? Not me, but now i do. Thanks book!