Hayao Miyazaki, is, pure and simple, one of the few truly admirable artists who you can admire as both a master of his medium AND a man. His, kind, caring nature show through in every movie he's ever made. From the beauty of Totoro to the romance of Porco Rosso, this is a man who shows human nature for what it is: stubborn and egotistical, yet still beautiful and lovely. Princess Mononoke was no exception, and arguably, it was one of his best. This was in no small part due to it's breathtaking animation. The sheer physical beauty and detail, right down to the smallest things like rushing water, were wonderfully drawn. That's what makes this book, a hardbound collection of background paintings, cel drawings, storyboards and more, worth it. The writing is hideous yes, but really, does it matter. The beauty of Miyazaki's vision is what shines through, and ultimately, what makes this book worth a million. Certaintly, forty dollars is acceptable.