Project Hail Mary is a sustained, entertaining science fiction novel.    There is lots of science and engineering, many quips and lots of banter, several plot twists, and some excitement, providing ongoing tension throughout.   Best of all, there is a pervading sense of wonder, following a “what-if” premise developed by the author.

The story starts with Ryland Grace waking up, alone on a spaceship, not knowing who he was, why he was there, nor where he is heading.   As the story fills in the background, we find out he is alone and on a long journey through space to save the planet.   We later find out he was a reluctant astronaut, and not really qualified to be the only person on such an important mission.   At his destination, he is surprised to see that an alien spaceship is already orbiting the targeted planet, Tau Ceti.

The best part of the book was the interaction between Ryland and the alien Rocky.    From first contact to the final paragraph, it is the “shining element” of the novel.    Universal themes of friendship, courage, ingenuity, and service to a noble cause are wound into the fabric of the tale.   The final part of the book was a perfect choice, ironic, but a fitting conclusion.

Project Hail Mary is a rewarding science fiction book and is highly recommended.

My rating 4.7 out of 5.0 stars4.7