A review by radina
2061: Odyssey Three by Arthur C. Clarke

adventurous mysterious reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Arthur C. Clarke must be growing on me, because I really enjoyed this book, even though it shares the same characteristic that made me dislike 2001 - which is that nothing really happens. I mean, things do happen - there are mysteries, and adventures, and even peril - but everything is resolved fairly quickly and with very little drama or trouble in the end. And yet, I found this book enjoyable rather than dull, albeit in a peaceful, calm way.

I think the main difference here is that I really like Heywood Floyd as a character. And much like in 2010, the rest of the cast of characters also shines. They're each delightful in their own way, and the interpersonal relations between them is charming.

The ending of this book was a bit odd -

I'm really not sure what to make of Clarke's passion for turning all his characters into energy beings

- but it did intrigue me and make me interested in picking up 3001, so that's a good sign!

Overall, this book was enjoyable in a sort of tame way. I was never on the edge of my seat, but I liked it!