wonceuponatime 's review for:

The Martian by Andy Weir
5.0

I am not a scientist. I am not an engineer. Why I am I reading this book?

These questions kept repeating in my brain while I read The Martian. The answers are more complicated.

Secretly, I want to be a scientist. I pretend to know lots about plants and biodiversity and big words like...biodiversity. I want to understand all the science-y stuff Mark works through his brain to save himself once he discovers that he has been left behind on Mars. I will admit some of those parts I "skimmed" somewhat heavily.

Still, even non-science-y people should read this book (skimming acceptable), because more than a scientist or astronaut or biologist, Mark is a pioneer. How can I use these (somewhat) random objects to keep myself alive? Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without. That is admirable.

Also, I wanted to read it before the movie came out.