This book was so frustrating, because it was such a great idea that was executed so poorly. A confusing plot with tons of holes, strange time jumps, way too much thinly veiled political commentary, and a rushed ending all added up to a disappointing 400 pages. The writers of the stage musical had great instincts, taking the intriguing concept and leaving or simplifying down the rest. See the stage show, if you can, and ditch the original.