A seemingly benevolent public health official uses a staged dysentery outbreak as a cover for a mass murder at a Tokyo bank. Twelve employees recount the events from their distinct viewpoints, each narrative adding layers to the grim portrait of a city grappling with the aftermath of war. The story unfolds through these fragmented testimonies, revealing the complex social and psychological landscape of post-war Japan.

The novel is celebrated for its intricate structure and its evocative portrayal of post-war Tokyo. Critics have noted the power of its multiple perspectives in building a complex and immersive narrative. The author's ability to weave a compelling mystery through the fragmented voices of survivors is frequently highlighted. This approach allows for a deep exploration of the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of devastation.