Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary” is a refreshing taste of the modern day sci-fi novel. Although I am not much of a sci-fi reader, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. You’re taken through the journey of Ryland Grace, a science teacher turned astronaut, as he uncovers a scientific breakthrough that will end the world in only a few years.
If you have any interest in biology and/or chemistry, I highly recommend this book. You will learn so much about a make believe material, you could ace a quiz at the end of the book. The chapters alternate between current-day Grace in the spaceship and the process of which he arrived there. We learn alongside Grace just exactly how he ended up in this position.
One of my favorite parts of this book is Rocky, an alien engineer from the planet Erid whose name describes him perfectly. He speaks in music, many notes forming types of chords to form words and sentences. Him and Grace manage to communicate and collaborate, putting their biology and engineering skills together to complete their mission.
No spoilers, but I definitely did not see the ending coming. Some people were very displeased, but I found it wholesome. Other problems people had with the book that I can agree with is the very caricaturistic style of the human characters. A sarcastic and charming scientist who happens to know almost everything, a russian who loves vodka, asian characters who speak with broken accents, and a female boss who is just so bossy and isn’t afraid to flaunt it.
Either way, “Project Hail Mary” is a book that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of preferred genre. If you’re a fan of sci-fi, a little mystery, science, and some fun interactions, I recommend this book. However, if tropes and caricatures turn you off, and you can’t stand science, steer clear.
4.5/5