Stories never start at the beginning, Benny . . . Stories are life lived backward.
-- Narrator (The Book)

Importance: In the midst of the Book's opening narration, Benny interrupts, insisting that the Book is not telling his story correctly. He is worried that if the Book does not include the details of his life preceding Kenji's death, the reader will not understand the truth of his family's love for one another. In this moment, the Book responds directly to Benny's concerns. The Book's comments regarding story establish the author's interest in exploring the power of personal narrative. At the same time, this moment marks the start of Benny and the Book's prolonged exchange throughout the novel. The reader can also rely on the Book's words in the passage to understand the author's overarching approach to form and structure.

And, too, there were memories in the alley. Ghosts. Best not to think about them.
-- Narrator (chapter 5)

Importance: In the wake of...