A truly extraordinary book. If someone had explained the subject matter to me beforehand I would have expected to find it fascinating, but not necessarily gripping. However, gripping was exactly what it was, quietly yet inexorably - especially towards the end. I'll say nothing about the plot as that would be impossible without spoilering some part of it, but this one is going to stay with me for a long time. Technically it could be filed under fantasy or dystopia but it's a subtle book, and Ishiguro weaves the story with understated style and grace. Information and background about the characters and their situation is drip-fed as events are related, rather than served on a plate, and while this has the (clearly intentional) effect of separating the reader from the characters' world, contrariwise it also creates an immersive reading experience. Thought-provoking, compassionate and hard-hitting all at once. I shall certainly be exploring more of this author's work!