"The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet" by David Mitchell

This was a very long and involved read dealing with Japan and the Dutch East India Company in the early 18th century. It was hard to keep track of the characters in the book because of the numerous foreign names, and there were times when I regretted starting it. But when all is said and done, I'm glad I read it. As with "Cloud Atlas", the author has woven together all the elements in the story with beautiful delicacy. I first heard the author being interviewed about this book when I was on my way to Petawawa to babysit Lucas. Driving on my own was an adventure. And tomorrow, Brendan leaves for Thailand.