One question that occurred to me while reading this novel by Kazuo Ishiguro is whether or not it would have been published had it been submitted by an unknown author. I think it's a close call. There is certainly a lot to chew over in this tale told by an Artificial Friend that is full not of sound and fury signifying nothing but of gentleness and care signifying ... something. At a minimum it offers a homily on the value of close observation as a form of caring. Klara, the robot – although that word appears only twice in 300 pages – has been programmed to be a good companion by noticing the traits and needs of her human owners. We see the world through Klara's eyes, and maybe get a fresh lesson in how to be more genuine.
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