The Martian

I have to admit this was pretty entertaining, but a very specific kind of entertaining. Andy Weir’s style is a unique mix of detailed science and witty humor. There’s lengthy figures of calculations and meticulous plans, and there’s also silly jokes. This style was also present in #95 Project Hail Mary - Andy Weir, and so I’m happy to see it in ‘The Martian’ as well.

I wouldn’t recommend it to everyone but that’s just because of the level of detail in the science. I can’t claim it’s one hundred percent accurate, but there’s lots of “thinking out loud” about how to overcome certain problems using the materials at hand. At some parts this got a bit boring, but most of the time I found that it added a level of realism and immersion that is difficult to achieve. It’s a pretty good reminder of how seriously complicated space travel is, and how impressive it is that we as a species can accomplish such a feat.

Andy Weir is easily becoming one of the better writers that I’ve encountered and I’m excited to see what else he creates.