I went in knowing nothing about the book except that it received alot of praise so I'm not gonna reveal much except to say the story deals with a host of issues like mortality, friendship, loss, and growing up. There are some science fiction elements but they are never at the forefront. The plot is slow moving but the prose style keeps you fully engaged. Mr. Ishiguro does a skillful job of dropping subtle hints throughout the various anecdotes that at first, may not seem too important in the present context, but in a larger context reveals the complexity of the characters and helps advance the plot.

Some of the science fiction stuff isn't fully explained. Because of this, the premise and situations portrayed in the book are somewhat unrealistic. Although this can be forgiven because it doesn't serve as a crux to the central themes. The protagonist who is narrating the story, likes to abruptly jump to different parts of the timeline when recounting her life that it may seem confusing. However I didn't find it a big deal.

I left feeling sad and moved. Mr. Ishiguro has masterfully crafted a story that on the outside seems simple, but is full of nuances and depth for the keen reader. It is a difficult book to review thoroughly without giving spoilers so I suggest you go in without any expectations and discover for yourself the magical and cruel world Mr. Ishiguro has created.