The best novel I read in a long time and I doubt it'll be topped by anything else this year. I can't believe this book didn't get more attention. I mean, if you like Jennifer Egan and/or David Mitchell you should not miss this.
Kunzru does the whole novel of ideas across time and continents thing as Mitchell and his writing has the same refinement if you know what I mean. He also reminds me of Egan with his talent for writing multiple characters in unique and pitch-perfect voices. He steers away from 1st person the vast majority of the time--which takes away a little of the extra heart you find in Egan when she does 1st person. However, he's a master of the 3rd person, making it personal enough that you believe you're in the character's head but infusing the whole text with a fine irony that reminds me of--you've guessed it, Mitchell. Plus he makes the Californian desert as alluring and mysterious and sexy as your most exotic travel destination.
I'm already excited for whatever Kunzru comes up with next.