number9dream, published in 2001, was David Mitchell's second novel and is probably my personal favourite. It follows a young Japanese boy as he travels to Tokyo in search for a father he never really knew - ultimately he finds a lot more than just a father. This novel very skillfully blurs the lines between reality and virtuality. The message seems to be that reality is a fluid construct and can change at any moment, at least this is one of the more prominent messages that I picked up from number9dream, especially after having read the ending.

number9dream was bound to be a success as it does what every great novel has to do - David Mitchell creates a character that the reader can empathise with and will to succeed. Mitchell then goes on to place this character in a string of situations where his life or the life of those he loves (and incidentally the reader feels an attachment to) are in danger.

We also want to hear from other fans of the David Mitchell books. It would be great to publish your reviews and comments right here on the site, so if you have a second, please email us.