"A mighty novel, variously bawdy, elevated, angry and tender, combining erudition, comedy, heresy, surreal science fiction and countless good stories." -- Robert Farren Sunday Independent "Original and brilliant...Lovers of Marquez and magical realism will be enchanted by the wonders of this novel, for the colour and vivacity of Saramago's imagination inspires and entertains." -- Kate Figes Sunday Times "Jose Saramago affirms the simple truths as only a writer of rare stature can." -- Christopher Wordsworth Guardian