A review by kliaw
The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell

adventurous challenging mysterious tense medium-paced

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

4.25

Really interesting read. The cultural aspects of the various aliens and religious aspects of the Jesuit (and non religious) characters were really well done, and they made the book feel quite unique among standard sci fi. The quasi-mystery given by the nonlinear narrative was engaging and suspenseful.

I do think there was very slow start, but once they get to space the story is quite fast paced.

They do say the title! (In an emotionally fraught time where the title represents something depressing, but it still made me irrationally excited)