I like how this book was structured (Part 1 set in the present, Part 2 composed of testimonies from vital characters, and Part 3 set in the past) but I found the story and its impact wanting. We are introduced to Japanese health workers during WW2 who participated in the vivisection of American prisoners for medical research. Bioethical concerns aside, the book also concerns the role of guilt and conscience in our lives and how scary it would be if people believe they can get away with anything. Endo's prose is sparse and good.