Hallberg's giant first novel has been the toast of critics and has already been the recipient of so much anticipation because of the author's two million dollar advance. The question is, of course, how is it?I can offer a complex answer. One is: a masterpiece. On one level it's one of the best novels I've ever read. The characterization, the scope, the BEAUTY of the writing! My goodness. Like the project his character William Hamilton Sweeney is working on to recreate New York City in its mini-entirety, the book is obviously ambitious. But it's not good DESPITE its ambition, it's great BECAUSE of it...what would happen if you could write a 900 page novel in which each sentence is poetry? If each of the dozen characters is memorable and complex and compelling? That's what, to a major extent, Hallberg has accomplished here. There are so many Post-It flags in my book--noting gorgeous sentences or amazing characterization, that it's, frankly, absurd looking.That said, the second answer is: ambition is ALSO what manifests as the book's only one real weakness. It's too long. And not too long in a "boy I don't have time for a 900 page book" way. I've read The Brother Karamazov. I read The Goldfinch. If it's great, the length is beside the point. Usually. Hallberg runs out of narrative steam about 700 pages in. The characters are still interesting. The writing is still eloquent. It's just that the conceits which keep the pages turning have run thin. There are certain plot elements Hallberg withholds in order to keep you reading. And I did. But my spiritual and emotional commitment was wavering by then.When I finished the book, I did tear up a little. If not from the actual denouement, than from getting and accepting the opportunity to enjoy such an artistic achievement.