A review by columnclub
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

adventurous funny informative slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

There were a lot of moments in this that felt more like the author showing off his scientific knowledge than part of a story, and ultimately that's what dragged my rating way down. At best this was mildly derailing, and at its worst, chauvinistic - some explanations were given to female characters who had every reason to already know the things the male protagonist was telling them. I had other issues, like the linear flashbacks that interrupted the narrative and very rarely had something meaningful to contribute, and the fact that virtually every character speaks like a teenage boy (and don't even get me started on the Russians). There is one central aspect to the story that's great, though, and while it wasn't always well executed, it was definitely enjoyable.
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