A review by willowbiblio
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

adventurous hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

"There's no Eureka moment. Just a slow, steady progression toward a goal. But man, when you get to that goal it feels good."
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I really loved the no-context start and the very incremental progression of plot backfill. Had this dialogue/emotion been a bit more polished this would have gotten a full 5 stars from me. I thought the way Weir established communication and trust between Rocky and Dr. Grace was inspired- the use of sculptures initially, followed by pantomiming, and eventually developing verbal communication was believable enough and flowed well. That Rocky was also alone and seeking a solution for Astrophage created a commonality between them that allowed a blossoming of their partnership and eventual friendship.

I loved Rocky's purity and undying optimism. He had this singular determination to find a solution against all odds. There was a kind of childlike innocence to his character that made me love him and want to see him protected.

I liked how Weir broke down Dr. Grace's assumptions about Eridian science and himself. Finding out that Dr. Grace was really a morally gray character who hadn't chosen to sacrifice himself gave him the opportunity to choose differently at the end when Rocky needed his help. It allowed him to redeem himself to himself and the readers. Excellent book, and I loved the happy ending.</spoiler?>