I really enjoyed reading this book probably since I have lived in Japan and I've even been to Kyoto where most of the story takes place. It really took me back there and made me miss Japan. If you've ever been to Japan you will enjoy reading this book. There are a lot of Japanese mannerisms and words that show up in the book. If you understand them it really adds to the reading experience. One thing I'm going to try to take away from reading this book is to better appreciate beauty. It ... (show more)

I really enjoyed reading this book probably since I have lived in Japan and I've even been to Kyoto where most of the story takes place. It really took me back there and made me miss Japan. If you've ever been to Japan you will enjoy reading this book. There are a lot of Japanese mannerisms and words that show up in the book. If you understand them it really adds to the reading experience. One thing I'm going to try to take away from reading this book is to better appreciate beauty. It describes a lot of beautiful things: the earth, decorations, clothes, and people. Japanese people appreciate beauty as almost a form of entertainment. I don't think many Americans look at it that way. I was a little surprised by how much I enjoyed the story, since it ends up being a love story. (show less)