Project Hail Mary is a sustained, entertaining science fiction novel.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 There is lots of science and engineering, many quips and lots of banter, several plot twists, and some excitement, providing ongoing tension throughout.\u00a0\u00a0 Best of all, there is a pervading sense of wonder, following a “what-if” premise developed by the author.<\/p>\n
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.\u00a0\u00a0 As the story fills in the background, we find out he is alone and on a long journey to save the planet.\u00a0\u00a0 We later find out he was a reluctant astronaut, and not really qualified to be the only person on such an important mission.\u00a0\u00a0 At his destination, he is surprised to see that an alien spaceship is orbiting the targeted planet, orbiting Tau Ceti.<\/p>\n
The best part of the book was the interaction between Ryland and the alien Rocky.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 From first contact to the final paragraph, it is the “shining element” of the novel.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Universal themes of friendship, courage, ingenuity, and service to a noble cause are wound into the fabric of the tale.\u00a0\u00a0 The final part of the book was a perfect choice, ironic, but a fitting conclusion.<\/p>\n
Project Hail Mary is a rewarding science fiction book and is highly recommended.<\/p>\n
My rating- 4.7\/5.<\/p>\n