When I was a kid I really liked the sci-fi classics: Asimov, Herbert, Bradbury. I don't read much of it now, though I did love Orson Scott Card's Ender's Game. But Ryan and Eunice listed Mary Doria Russell's The Sparrow as a favorite on their website, so I thought I'd give it a try.
It's the story of a the discovery of alien life and an expedition to the nearby planet. It is a Jesuit party and it goes horribly awry. The stories of the discovery and the post-mortem investigation are told simultaneously, building toward the same climax. It is an effective storytelling device and the hero is a compelling figure. Ultimately, though, I was disappointed in the "reveal."
So, all in all, I'd say a pretty good quick read - maybe a 7 out of 10.
Dad's review here
Lauren's review here
Thanks! Even with your reservations, sounds like a worthwhile read - I'll check online & see if I can get it from our library.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, did you ever read the other Ender's Game spinoffs? I can't remember the title, but one is basically the same story told from Bean's viewpoint....I think I liked this even better than the original story!
I went to look at Ryan and Eunice's blog to see what they said about this book (couldn't find it) and whatever else they were reading....I have looked at their site before, but it has gotten beefed up a lot - it's fun to look at.
Oh....the book that features Bean is called Ender's Shadow.
ReplyDeleteThe only additional Ender book I read was _Ender's Shadow_. I really liked it. In fact, when I finished, I went to a bookstore and compared scenes across the two.
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