A review by bzliz
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers

adventurous hopeful reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

I had a hard time connecting with this, not through any fault of its own. Becky Chambers’ writing was enjoyable enough but science fiction has always been a genre I don’t gravitate towards. I felt a little guilty taking as long as I did to finish the audiobook since others are waiting for it on Libby but I needed to see it through to the end. 

I liked the connection between the crew of the ship and the way they grew together. The way they coexist and learn how to relate to other species was interesting and I think it worked out in a positive way that made me feel like most of the characters had a satisfying arc. I didn’t mind the episodic feeling either. Each section of the book felt like it had a plot arc to complete while they completed their overall mission which finished with a bang. 

Where I got bogged down was trying to keep straight all the other species and planets that factored in. That’s always been a challenge for me with this genre and I’ve been trying to expand my reading pool but I’m certain if I’d been reading a physical copy, I would have DNF’d early on. If you’re at all like me, go with the audiobook for this one. 

I do think this is palatable enough for most people but anyone who goes in looking for big action sequences or the captain to be the big hero who saves the day will be disappointed. This book was much more a story of interpersonal relationships and a look at how our own prejudices can creep up on us. And although I did end up enjoying it, I won’t be continuing with the series. 
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