This important work of Japanese science fiction presents the story of Yuichi, a youth who escapes the regimented world of Japanese society for the beauty and freedom of Aphrodite, a floating island city built by the visionary Mr. Caan. Excited by the seemingly limitless potential of Aphrodite and confident of his own future, Yuichi encounters a new world: friendship, responsibility, love, and growing up.Seen through the pattern of Yuichi's life, however, is the evolution and development of the true heroine of the work: the island city Aphrodite-ever beautiful, ever filled with the limitless energy of creation. And as the global economy spirals downward, leaving Aphrodite a deserted slum slated for destruction, perhaps Yuichi is the only person who can save her...Ideal for young adult readers, but with a philosophical depth to make it a thought-provoking and rewarding book for adult readers as well.