Project Hail Mary
Written by: Andy Weir
Year: 2021
Audiobook performed by: Ray Porter

It was a long time coming, but I finally finished this book. I seem to have trouble finishing books (or shows, for that matter) that I start, even if I love them. It’s weird.

A science teacher wakes up alone on a spaceship. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing Earth’s sun, and realizes that an unexpected friendship may be the key.

I knew I wanted to read this book as soon as I heard of it way back in 2021. The Martian had been one of the best books I’d read in a long time, so I knew I definitely wanted to read (or listen to) this one. And even though it took me forever, I finally got through it, and can finally watch the movie. I have to say, Project Hail Mary really is as good as The Martian. And the audiobook is performed beautifully by Ray Porter. He really captured the essence of all the characters, giving each their own distinctive voice without sounding silly.

Ryland Grace, our main character, was so well drawn, and we really feel for him. There’s bits of humour sprinkled in that made me grin like an idiot, even laugh out loud a few times. The science, at least to me, sounds all plausible, even though it relies on a substance that doesn’t exist to make it work. Weir is very good at making things sound scientific without being dry. I don’t want to say too much more in case there are people who haven’t read the book who want to, but needless to say, I absolutely loved it. The ending was a nice surprise as well. It was heading towards one thing, and I was rather upset, but then, surprise! Not surprisingly, I give it a 10/10.

AMAZE AMAZE AMAZE!!

M.