“The Martian” by Andy Weir | Book Review

Book Review | Rating – 5/5 | Genre – Science Fiction

So it’s been a while since I’ve written anything. Turns out lockdown was a little trickier to deal with than I thought. Anyway, I decided to delve back into my usual reading with a book I knew I would enjoy – so that’s what brought me to The Martian by Andy Weir.

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Six days ago, astronaut Mark Watney became one of the first people to walk on Mars. Now, he finds himself stranded and completely alone with no way to even signal Earth that he’s alive—and even if he could get word out, his supplies would be gone long before a rescue could arrive. Will his resourcefulness be enough to overcome the impossible odds against him? (synopsis from Goodreads)

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What did I think?

As can be distinguished by the 5 star rating, I really enjoyed this book. Its definitely in my pile of “my favourite all time” books. I will hold my hands up and say that I was inspired to read this book after watching the film; in my defence I have a stronger love of sci-fi films that books. Anywho, after loving hte film I thought i’d give the book a shot and found myself enjoying it just as much, if not more so.

Focusing just on the book; its Andy Weir’s writing style that had me hooked from the get go. He brings Mark Watney, our scarcastic protagonist, to life in such a way that he starts to feel like a real person, that I’m reading his actual diary and he really was stranded on Mars. As the story unfolds you’re always given a hilarious glimpse into how Mark feels towards his predicament.

I got this book many years ago and I’ve read it multiple times since then, even though I know whats happening, I still feel the suspense and sense of worry that is prominent throughout. Not only are you able to see how Mark feels towards the situation, but you also get the perspectives of multiple characters who tackle Mark’s issue in different ways.

Favourite Moments…

• Writing style – This always seems to be something I enjoy when reading books, but with this one in particular its very apt. The book splits into 1st person diary entries from Mark, all of which move his predicament forward as well as provide sarcastic wit that brings the character to life. Then there is the 3rd person sections that describe how NASA and the other astranauts are dealing with Mark’s abandonment.
• Explanations of science – For me, I was awful at science, it just wouldn’t sit in my brain or make-sense to me. Yet in this book there is always a great explanation of how certain aspects of his rescue works. Of course, there are always parts that went over my head, but the science is dumbed down enough to make sense without seeming completely stupid. Then again, with no actual knowledge of science in my brain it could all be utter nonesense!
• Hilarious – I think what makes this book is that the main character doesn’t take himself seriously. Even in the most intense situations he is cracking jokes that alleviate the tensions slightly. It is this that makes the book feel so real.

Overall…

This is a great book. As i’ve mentioned throughout the review, Weir brought Mars to life and made you feel like you’re actually watching what happens to Mark as he attempts to escape the red planet. It is full of suspense as you wonder what will happen to the protagonist, while remaining grounded with the wit filled writing.

For those who enjoy sci-fi or are looking for a good introduction to the sci-fi genre, I would definitely recommend you give this book a try.