If I didn't know any better, Mr. Rothfuss has true and deep humility. He tells us all that this book has little to do with anything like a traditional novel and that we'll probably not like it. I find this kind of humility fantastically funny. I even think he believes it. 
 On the other hand, I loved this book, and I won't be surprised if everyone else who picks this up will like it, too. I might even say that it works quite well as a standalone novel that is unrelated to the rest of the series. It was so rich in language and magical realism and heart that it reminded me of some of the best of Pratchett and Gaiman condensed into the adventures of one wisp of a girl with her little intimate possessions trying to keep the whole world in perfect order. 
 Does anyone else see an OCD Clotho? 
 I cannot believe how charming the whole novel was. 
 It was so damn modest. Even if I wasn't another huge fan of Mr. Rothfuss, this little interlude would have stood on its own and would have made an indelible impression on me. 
 Can't always say that about anything touted as a 2.5 in book order.