4 stars (really liked it). I am impressed by the different cultures represented in a fairly contemporary setting. Gives me a sort of historical fiction feel of my own history! (For example Serbs during the Bosnian war.) Also the artistic stuff appeals to me-advanced robotic puppetry, science used for philosophical art. Lastly, the characters in our own backyard-New Jersey-are very relatable!) I think the character development is very thorough and engaging. You really want to know their motives and story from beginning end as they are SO developed you feel you know them – 2016 Adult Summer Reading Participant