I understand the approach Piccolt took in writing the story backwards. Honestly I didn't catch on until 3rd chapter and reread from beginning. But due to the approach I couldn't fully identify with the very many characters. Finally, 2/3 's into the book I read the author's notes and readers guide and the epilogue; then the rest of the book from the back forward and then the first couple chapters again. I felt I worked quite hard. No comment on topic other than it was well researched and dealt with honestly and intelligently.