Synopsis
About Andy Weir
See more books from this AuthorWeir displays a virtuosic ability to write about highly technical situations without leaving readers far behind. The result is a story that is as plausible as it is compelling.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from KirkusDeftly avoiding the problem of the Robinson Crusoe tale that bogs down in repetitious behavior, Weir uses Watney’s proactive nature and determination to survive to keep the story escalating to a riveting conclusion.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from Publishers Weekly...Weir uses Watney’s proactive nature and determination to survive to keep the story escalating to a riveting conclusion.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from Publishers Weekly...I’d perhaps have enjoyed a slightly grittier portrayal of the battle for the time, money, and resources needed to save one human from millions of miles away. Nonetheless, after this book, I am definitely going to be spending all of my time science-ing the shit out of everyday life.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from Blog CriticsThe Martian is not a masterpiece of characterization or word smithing, but it has some terrifically entertaining storytelling, a very heroic hero, and it makes science fun.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from Dear AuthorWeir has created an authentic portrayal of the future of space travel, and Watney is the perfect character to follow as he struggles in an unknown and hostile environment.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from Star TribuneWhile Mark Watney's Mars narration is brilliant, witty and compelling, the third-person narration on Earth doesn't quite stand up. Seeing various NASA geniuses at work is certainly fascinating, but it lacks that same spunk we see in Watney's first-person narration. This is only a minor complaint, because the story is strong...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAfter reading Andy Weir’s “The Martian” I was awed by the level of detail, character development, and sheer quality of the narrative. It is one of the best science fiction written and should be considered along the likes of Isaac Asimov and Arthur C. Clarke.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...it’s hard not to be swept up in his vision and root for everyone one of these characters to survive the hardships Weir puts them through.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from AV ClubIt's an impressively geeky debut novel, and it could easily double as a survival guide. Our hero is Mark Watney. He's a botanist and mechanical engineer, and Weir tells his story largely through the astronaut's fantastically detailed work logs.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is true in that sense to the genre, in its manufacture and resolution of suspense carried on to the final pages.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from National Post artsThe book builds to an edge-of-your-seat finale (Hollywood has already bought the film rights). But what makes it memorable is its insistence that a 90 million-square-mile barren wasteland is no match for a roll of duct tape and some ingenuity.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWatney encounters no four-armed green-skinned thark warriors, no amorphous super-beings or tripod-building conquerors, but it doesn’t matter. Against all odds, on his first time at bat, Andy Weir has written a science fiction classic – a scrappy, rough-around-the-edges classic, but a classic all the same.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe story succeeds on several levels and for a variety of reasons, not least of which is its surprising plausibility. Weir, a software engineer and self-described "space nerd," has kept The Martian within the realm of what could theoretically happen in an actual manned expedition to Mars.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe at-times plodding narrative notwithstanding, Andy Weir's The Martian...is a fun story of survival, a science fiction tale in the purest sense in that it is a fiction rooted in science and, as such, will appeal to those interested in space travel and Mars without all the little green men.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is defiantly a science fiction novel, but a fictional tale with enough science in it to make it feel like fact. This is one for the aficionado who loves science fiction, but complains there’s not enough science in science fiction. Recommended.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMore than funny, however, "The Martian" is smart. Mark Watney is not only an astronaut, but also has a degree in mechanical engineering from University of Chicago, the ability to sustain himself on Mars, and author Andy Weir has actually made all of this accessible to readers!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWhat’s terrific about The Martian is that it is smart, at times nail-biting, realistic and ultimately an uplifting story about what mankind can accomplish, even when things don’t go as smoothly as planned.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWeir has created an authentic portrayal of the future of space travel, and Watney is the perfect character to follow as he struggles in an unknown and hostile environment.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWeir’s debut novel is an engrossing, largely science-based sci-fi survival tale that despite some overly long explanations of how/why things work, captures the attention and doesn’t let go...With a debut this good, one can only wonder what Weir has in store for his next title.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI still can’t repair anything whatsoever, but I thoroughly enjoyed accompanying the Martian as he invented ways to fix everything that broke and as he struggled to survive.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...that’s what makes The Martian such a success. It reminds readers of the enduring spirit of humanity. And it does it in a way that could easily inspire future generations...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis was a fabulous Sci-Fi Suspense novel that literally had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t even imagine being stranded on Mars by your fellow crew members because they think you’re dead...This is one book that I highly recommend!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe amount of research here is astounding. We’re suckers for well-grounded fiction, and on the technical side The Martian is exemplary...Watney, an engineer/botanist, details his various survival schemes in his log. These witty first-person segments are the better part of the novel.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSo while I would recommend The Martian as a good and fast beach read, it’s nothing to write home about. Maybe just wait a few years and give the movie a gander.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI read it last month, and loved pretty much every page. It’s a rarity in that it’s a science fiction book, but every part of it is believable.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...The Martian should inspire leaders of any college or university grappling with how to stay "alive" and relevant and able to meet the needs of 21st-century students.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is a ripping, high-octane (er... hydrazine) adventure; a Robinson Crusoe on Mars (1964) for the early 21st century that hits the ground running and bowls along relentlessly...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThat attention to technical accuracy would be largely meaningless unless the book was a good story, and, fortunately, it is. The Martian is a story that’s hard to put down as you wonder how Watney will use his experience and what limited resources he has to find a way to survive as he encounters new challenges and setbacks...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelA quick and engrossing read. Will make a good movie because it seems to be written to be turned into one. I mean that in a good way.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is a great story of how humanity can band together and go to extreme lengths to save one life and that in itself is a good reason to read “The Martian.”
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWeir has created an authentic portrayal of the future of space travel, and Watney is the perfect character to follow as he struggles in an unknown and hostile environment.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is true in that sense to the genre, in its manufacture and resolution of suspense carried on to the final pages.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel | See more reviews from National Post artsIt’s an epic adventure for a new age of space eagerness and space tech, and a remarkable survival story with unforgettable characters all around. Here’s to the future, folks.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMark is always describing different situation and he is very comedic while doing it. This makes the story funny and interesting to read. I would recommend this book to anyone that is interested in all the science of Mars that comes with this book along with an enticing story that will leave you gasping until the end.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...then we have the NASA scientists. They are as bland as can be. They are either whiny or generic bureaucrats...Despite its flaws, I believe that this is one of the best books of our generation...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI love The Martian. I don't want to say much else because I think it is a book you really read for yourself so you can come up with your own conclusions. Whether you read sci-fi or not, this is a book that I can highly recommend.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelJoking aside, The Martian is a cracker of a book and I’ll definitely be reading future books by Andy Weir. I give The Martian an A.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIt really does have a little bit of everything for a wide variety of readers, but most importantly, it is just a fantastic story with amazing writing and some of the best lines one will find in a modern novel. Just do yourself a favor and go out and read it; you will not be sorry you did.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is an intelligent and witty science-based story that reminds its audience of human abilities and perseverance. The feel-good moments hide to an extent the various serious situations in which Mark finds himself...Regardless of what happens, watching Mark in action is worth any amount of emotional pain or suspense a reader must endure.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWeir is a masterful writer from his descriptions of MARS, the equipment involved and character depth I was in awe. Watney is a biologist, but the man is a freakin’ MacGyver in his ability to be quick thinking and work with the limited equipment and food available to him.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThough it’s technically science fiction, it reads like a memoir...Weir is a tremendous writer and he’s achieved something magical with The Martian. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to any reader, whether you’re a fan of science fiction or not; it’s just that good.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe book is a tad overlong and some of the episodes, with their scientific detail, can get tedious if you aren't quite as nerdy as the author. But Watney is such an engaging protagonist and the general pace of the narrative is so propulsive that it makes for an enjoyable escapist entertainment.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIf you can read this book at a leisurely pace, or not sneak a look at the ending to alleviate some of the tension, you are a better person than I! This is a great read!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAs it is, with a good-natured, funny, and likable if somewhat shallow protagonist facing an overly-long but mostly interesting and scientifically rigorous series of unfortunate events, The Martian was still quite enjoyable.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis was a fast read – got through it in the course of a day and a half. Surprisingly, this was recommended by my daughter, and it’s not a typical of the books she usually reads. This one gets my strong recommendation.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelYou don’t have to be a fan of science fiction to appreciate this novel. It’s a truly intense analysis of human character and survival, dozens of unknowns on such an unknown planet...Highly, highly recommended.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe story couldn’t be more gripping, but what makes it a winner is the humor and common sense that Mark exhibits in adapting to his surroundings, stark as they are. A very fast-paced book that had this non-technical sci-fi reader up late.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe wonderful thing is that it is NASA and brilliant minds work for NASA, so Watney might just have a chance to survive, he is pretty amazing himself. It's not an easy task Watney has going for himself, but he isn't your typical astronaut. I recommend The Martian, just make sure your strapped in for the ride!!!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelRead this book for the science, read this book for the adrenaline, read this book for the wonder that is the human spirit. Just be sure you read (or listen to) this book.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian breaks no new ground in the genre of near-future hard science fiction: there are no high concepts, no trippy rambles through strange histories, no examinations of alien societies, and no black monoliths. Instead, Weir offers a competent tale of tackling a problem in the face of long odds and indifferent nature...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWell, the adventure of the novel cannot be beat, plain and simple. I tore through the book, especially the last handful of pages, so fast that I thought it would fly out of my hands...But also, it’s not without its problems. Watney never feels like anything but an invented character...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI would highly recommend The Martian to anyone looking for a delightful humorous read with just enough drama. I really enjoyed it.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is truly science fiction at its best. Don’t let the fear of science keep you from reading The Martian. It’s a funny, gripping, totally absorbing tale that will keep you at the edge of your seat and marveling at human ingenuity, as well as chuckling at its humanity.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI will never be an astronaut, but I’m thankful that my imagination (and good visual memories of Gravity) didn’t realize that I do not do Science Fiction. It grabbed on to Andy Weir’s world and buckled in for the joy ride.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelConsidering how reluctant I was to pick it up (I had just finished Big Little Lies and was worried about the dreaded Good Book Hangover), I was so happy it exceeded any and all expectations I had!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is a terrific book: funny, informative, and deeply moving. It offers up rich pleasures even if you're not a science geek. And if you are a geek...well have at it!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelFriends, the writing in The Martian by Andy Weir is very action oriented. Honestly, if you like Robinson Crusoe type of survival stories where you see someone just roughing it and how they get through their environment, you will love this book.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe tension that builds in this book is key to why this novel works so well; this is edge of your seat thriller writing at its best...What I loved the most about this novel was the humour, while this was a tense book, the little one liners thrown in really worked for me.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelJust when I was feeling really claustrophobic with Watney on Mars I was glad to see the story open up to include the team back home at NASA as well as his crewmates. The supporting characters add more context and interest to the story.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI can see this being an excellent movie, and I look forward to seeing it soon! This is great for adults and teens who enjoy science fiction, adventure and survival stories - especially peppered with humor.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelRead it, you'll be glad you did; creative and entertaining, and you'll be even able to see this story on the big screen in the near future.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI loved The Martian. Mostly. If you love science, there is a lot to enjoy here. Even if you do love science, some of those facts could still be flying over your head, because there is A LOT of that. I admit to reading past them occasionally...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI did manage to finish The Martian but I can’t say I loved it, or even enjoyed it that much. I just didn’t see the point of this book at all. There was no emotion, no character growth, no real story...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe writing is smart, funny and filled with witty dialog and humor. It’s obvious the author did a lot of research, and got it right. I have a background in science so I was thrilled with the detail, however not understanding the science does not prevent the reader from enjoying the book.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMost of the story is told in journal entries by Mark, and it’s through these that I got hooked. Hopelessly, completely hooked. In fact, I suggest that you set aside an afternoon for this one, because you won’t want to put it down.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe combination made for a gripping read since the stakes were so high, the odds were against Mark, and I was absolutely, completely invested in his survival.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAs I said, I'm highly recommending The Martian to teens and adults alike. For anyone who enjoys a survival story, this is a must read.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThough I wasn’t emotionally invested in the outcome, I definitely appreciate Weir’s writing. He builds suspense — will he make it, or won’t he? — and deftly brings hostile, lonely Mars to life.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis isn’t a thrill-a-minute suspense with explosions (okay, without many explosions), but it’s an edge-of-your-seat window into a very scary situation, approached with humor and pathos and an amazing level of detail. It certainly makes me want to watch the movie!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is like no book I've read before and I stayed up to all hours to finish is, completely incapable of putting it down, even for sleep. Even if you don't read science fiction, take a chance on this one. You won't be disappointed.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelPlease quit everything you're doing and go read this book. It's amazing and I can't recommend it highly enough.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIts a book where I think that the audio is truly the way to go in order to get all the nuances, all the tension and humor and the beautiful way that Weir tells a story. Weir’s debut isn’t perfect but I love how he crafted his story. This is an author that I am looking forward to reading more stories from.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWow wow WOW! This book. This book basically took over my life for three days and I couldn't bear the time when I wasn't reading it. Mark Watney got inside my head and under my skin like no other sci-fi hero has...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelHe has a great sense of humor (his entries are punctuated by smart remarks), and a can-do attitude. This is a unique survival novel. Weir makes the real science in science fiction intriguing and suspenseful. Physics and robotics geeks will rejoice.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...it was great. Mark is that guy who will make people laugh in any shitty situation, except you know, he’s by himself. You would think that a book has basically ONE character might get a little boring, but his sense of humor kept it really engaging. I didn’t want to put it down.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is a one of a kind page-turner. It’s an amazing story of survival, brilliance, quick wittedness and laugh out loud humor. I’ve never read a book in which I could so easily breeze through the science, chemistry and biology and still highly enjoy it.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...I really like and admired Mark as a character, got sucked in to the technical parts rather than skimming over them (or worse, giving up completely) and I was desperately to find out what would happen. Even if you aren’t a fan of science fiction, I can definitely recommend The Martian – it took me by surprise just how much I enjoyed it.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI’ve recommended this book to many friends, especially those who love some adventure. Some have been put off by the title but, like I said, it’s not science fiction. It’s an action-packed read with a climactic ending.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian ends up being an adventure story with an unlikely yet likeable hero. Even though Mark is fictional, there are people like him in the world willing to sacrifice themselves to expand our knowledge of the universe. That’s pretty amazing.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI can't believe how this book engaged me. I really didn't expect it and pretty much skimmed the scientific, botanist stuff about growing potatoes. And yet. I don't know how or when it happened but I got hooked and addicted. Mark is a modern day McGyver.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMost science fiction novels I read are usually pretty serious. I guess the end of the world or a galactic battle doesn’t lend itself to comedy. Not so with The Martian by Andy Weir. I found myself laughing out loud at astronaut Mark Watney’s log during his unexpected stay on Mars.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSeriously, The Martian is completely engaging and so much more than just a guy stuck on Mars. I’m so glad I read this, and can’t wait to see what Andy Weir writes next!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIt's a smarty-pants book even us dummies can read & love! Plus, he uses duct tape. Proving, once again, there's nothing you can't do as long as you have that stuff.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelYou’d think that a novel that’s restricted to a habitat, a rover, and a deserted planet as locales, and one character all by his lonesome would get tedious in the long run, but if you’re Weir that’s all you need.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe author never lets Mark off the hook; it felt like he just kept getting dealt a hard hand right to the end. Laughing while biting your nails… it’s an interesting sensation.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelOverall, then, The Martian takes a decent shot at being that rarest of beasts: ‘hard’ sci-fi that also appeals to the general reader. Despite its faults, I came away completely seduced by its puppy-like charm. I look forward to the inevitable film.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAll round it’s an OK book and for me it’s one that I did have some trouble finishing as the science got a little bit too much for me. That said it is impressive and whilst it’s a debut I think we’ll be hearing from Andy again.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelLoved it, despite the heavy science talk. The voice and style made this story and all the science talk, while interesting, doesn't distract from the story itself.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIt got to the point where I starting coming up with my own mathematical equations. For instance, why doesn’t my rage times my boredom equal Mark’s death? If only I could kill off characters with my mind. If only.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMark's log entries, the narration from NASA, it felt believable and authentic, the characters likable. Mark's the King of Mars but I also loved Venkat, Mindy, Mitch and the Hermes crew.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe point is, though, that you don't really have to be a big sci-fi fan to enjoy this book. It's just a very well-written and exciting tale. But if you lived through the Apollo missions as I did, or even if you just enjoyed Apollo 13, the movie, you'll find a lot that seems familiar here.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelHe's the same guy in the beginning as he is at the end...this novel is much more about plot than character development. That said, I had to KNOW WHAT HAPPENED! Thus, the staying up past my bedtime. If you're looking for a book that will suck you in straight away and keep you engaged, this is the one!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelBy all accounts, it went down very well...The result is a novel with problematic priorities that begs for the suggestions of a determined editor. That it is a gripping and largely satisfying text nevertheless speaks to how marvellous The Martian might have been.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe book touched all kinds of buttons in my geeky heart; space travel, real science that not once relies on some made up magical science to save the day, funny, suspenseful, surprising and unabashedly entertaining.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIn the end The Martian still passes as an entertaining and fast read, but I was craving so much more from the character element between the exciting plot points that I can’t help but be a little disappointed.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI very much recommend this book for science lovers, adventure lovers, and people who just enjoy a good laugh at some pretty crude jokes. My dad and I both loved it and I enjoyed chatting with him about it once I’d finished.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is not a very serious book, but it’s not exactly full tilt comedy either. I liked it, but it might have been a bit better if it had chosen one or the other.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelUnless you're a scientist yourself, and get off on 4,000-word descriptions of aeronautical mathematical formulas interspersed with clunky, sometimes slightly homophobic "dad jokes," just do yourself a favor and wait for the movie, where this book's admittedly addictive ticking-clock plot will undoubtedly be put to better use.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAll in all, The Martian reads like what it professes to be, a space odyssey written by a self-proclaimed geek who takes obvious joy in puzzling out the improbable situation he's inserted his protagonist into. This one is highly recommended, especially for fans of sci-fi and speculative fiction.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelOverall; I totally did not expect to like The Martian as much as I did. The reviews don't lie, it really is a good read. I'm so glad I worked it into my reading schedule, and I've added Andy Weir to my list of authors to keep my eye out for!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSo as you might guess I didn’t like The Martian very much, I thought it was utter bobbins if I am honest. I had such high hopes for it, especially after hearing all the right people loving it.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelParts of the book read like a really good adventure story with tense scenes where survival is questionable. Other parts, which really make the ultra-science facts bearable, are extremely funny. It is a well-balanced book: science-adventure-humor-ingenuity. What's not to like?
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelListen, this could have been a stressful and sad read. But it isn’t. Mark is a resilient guy who has a sarcastic voice that works so well...I simply adored this book and recommend it to everyone.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAnyway, I pretty much read it in a single sitting, and recommend it enthusiastically to anyone who enjoys harrowing survival stories that are chock full of science--instructive as well as entertaining.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is an absolutely fantastic read and without doubt one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. This is partly because of Mark Watney himself. What an incredible character!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI think I enjoyed the book even more the second time around...It’s just a thrill ride and a whole lot of fun.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMark’s character is funny, vulnerable and so unbelievably courageous, he is a delight in every way and his co-stars both in space and on terra firma are remarkable and genuine.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelOverall The Martian is an enjoyable novel for science fiction fans; a great storyline, wonderful characters and chock full of science. These elements all combine to make this a satisfying read.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIt’s a great suspense thriller that kept me enthralled all the way through. I highly recommend this one.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI found The Martian to be an amazing story, full of suspense and emotion, and it even taught me a thing or two about chemistry and engineering! As mentioned, the technical details may turn some readers off, but you can get a lot out of the story even if you skim some of Watney's chemistry lessons...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian repeatedly places the reader in that edge-of-your-seat moment that all action narratives strive to achieve. There is danger, explosions, experimentation, a few tips of the hat to popular culture, and plenty of emotional ups and downs.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...I found myself growing less interested in these sections and more curious about events on the Red Planet. That isn’t to say that this isn’t a good book. It’s a very enjoyable, entertaining first novel from Weir and one that makes me curious to see what he’ll offer us next.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is a reminder that sci-fi is sometimes a story that is right around the corner. This fiction could be fact. This story could become real life, with our children playing the leading role.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI really don’t want to go into much more about the plot, so let me just sum up and give this one a big recommendation. Seriously, it’s tremendous fun and the kind of book that’d be perfect for a plane trip or anytime you’ve got a few hours you’d like to pleasantly pass.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI can’t recommend this book enough, from the simplistic way in which it was written to the funny and human ways in which these characters react to adversity.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSo, highly recommended even if you’re not a “hard” science fiction reader. There’s already a movie version in the works, and it should be a good one. But read the book first.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAndy Weir has created a true gem of a space adventure. He borrows from human imagination and dares to explore a fantasy where the risk and the reward are unprecedented in this modern day "Lost in Space".
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAt times The Martian felt very much like a debut – the writing isn’t always as smooth as it should be, and there was a lack of psychological depth. Ultimately though, it is a fun and light-hearted science-fiction novel that appeals to a wide public.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelYou don’t need to know that I’d give it 4.5 out of 5, even though I would. What I loved about this book is how very different Mark Watney is than me.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelMore than a science- fiction book, The Martian is popular science at its very best. It is brilliant yet unpretentious. Who knew someone would have the key to surviving the unimaginable on Mars?
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAnd it took me about half a chapter to fall in love. The Martian is exactly what it’s billed to be – a guy stranded alone on Mars. Nothing terribly new and unique there. However, this book works so well because it is exactly like what you expect, but Weir packs in so many unique, interesting, and mind boggling...facts...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWhat we have here is an entirely original, clever and memorable thriller. It's a fun, fascinating, rewarding read not to be missed.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian was a gripping tale, and I had a hard time putting it down. The stakes were always at their highest, with Mark never more than a slight error away from instant death. The portrayal of NASA operations and the astronauts was as accurate as anything that I’ve read.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelTo say I enjoyed this book is an understatement, as I usually hate novels that try to be hard sci-fi.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelTHE MARTIAN is everything I want in science fiction. High stakes, excellent pacing, unexpected humor, an amazing premise, smart yet accessible science, and fully realized characters that I miss once the last page is turned.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelWeir does a great job of building the tension as he teases to the reader the various ways Mark could perhaps be rescued before smashing them to pieces and starting over again. This is a clever and enjoyable story and I’m looking forward to seeing the movie and how they adapt it to the big screen.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI hear this is being made into a movie and I have to say, I can’t wait to see it. I’ve already recommended this book to several of my friends because I enjoyed it so much.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThere were a few flaws in the reading, but overall a fun, plot-based novel, if you are fine with characters who don't develop too much, and are able to suspend your disbelief long enough to get into the narrative. If you don’t mind sarcasm and strong language, and enjoy the triumph of creative survival over harsh odds, you’ll love this...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI would recommend this book to anyone curious about what exactly is involved in traveling to another planet and surviving on it against all the odds. Weir’s fictional approach is practical yet utilizes elements of drama that are very real to those involved in spaceflight. T
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis sounds like it could be extremely boring – one lone man going about the very practical business of surviving on Mars without even the drama of aliens or something? Sounds too much like a documentary. But it works. Not just works, actually - it’s also interesting, tense, exciting, funny, and emotional.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelRead it. Especially if you like survival books, books about space exploration, or the movie Apollo 13. But in general, if you like your books smart, funny, exciting, and awesome, give this one a try, even if the description doesn’t seem like something you’d normally be into.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian was an exciting, moving story that I’ve been recommending to everyone since I finished reading it. This is definitely a must-read...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelHow he gets to that place is an intensely adventurous and gripping blend of hard science and science fiction. And it forces me to understand that I wouldn’t last ten minutes in Mark’s situation. I’ll take the desert island scenario any day.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI don’t want to give away much of the story because the best part is reading it and going OMG what happens next no don’t tell me ahhhh I wasn’t expecting that oh of course but then what oh my gosh, wait, seriously? the entire book. For the record, I’m also not a big fan of tense anxiety-ridden books.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThere's plenty of good ideas here, and at times Weir shows he can pull off a fast-paced narrative, but I feel it fails in becoming a coherent whole. There's glimpses of something much better here, but they get lost in a desire to be both action-filled entertainment and dry Hard SF.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelAndy Weir does not disappoint! I was drawn in from the very start, sliding through pages quickly...When I get through a book, cover to cover, in just two days (work days at that!), it must be a good read!
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelOh man. Honestly. I can’t remember the last time I enjoyed a novel as much as I enjoyed this novel. It’s THAT GOOD, people.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelFrom the affable characters, to the stunning ingenuity, the deadly location, and fascinating space scenes, The Martian excels on all accounts. But the real winner is the mind-blowing research Andy Weir undertook and used to make his story the best it can be.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelIt’s a tribute to smart. While there definitely is tension, the calmness of the hero and somewhat odd pacing make it a remarkably relaxing read for a thriller...Rather the reader experiences a series of smaller crises and resolutions along the way.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelDon’t get me wrong; I really enjoyed The Martian. I’m just the type of technically adept literary lightweight that is the book’s target demographic. But it is pure entertainment, to the point where I seriously fear what would happen to the human race if we ever migrated to Mars.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSerious, I recommended this book to a teen looking for a good read. He read it, loved it, and passed it onto his classmates. After I finished it, I passed it onto my husband who also loved it and we've both been talking it up ever since.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelSo if you want a book that's going to keep you on the edge of your seat, this is the one for you. Especially if you want to go into the movie this November knowing what happens! This is definitely a great one to read the book first.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian has earned the praise that is being heaped on the novel. Funny, witty, oddly intellectual and downright fun, The Martian isn’t a novel to ignore or pass over.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe story-telling style is the clean, crisp prose of the best 20th century hard sf, with a viewpoint set firmly in the 21st century. The view of humanity is positive without being pollyanna-ish. Not for anyone who thinks either dystopia or pointlessness is the height of literary art, but for everyone else, this is a fantastic read.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelHoly page-turner! I actually got this book on audio because I HAD to know what happened and turned the pages REALLY fast as the book got going. I am not even entirely sure if I retained everything. I kind of want to hug the book and I really really hope Andy Weir can keep the momentum going and follow up with an awesome book.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is one of those books that is not only a great story but that teaches you something in the process. This is Weir’s first book and if he continues to produce books of this caliber we probably have of one of sci-fi’s next greats here.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI’ll give you the same warning I’ve read everywhere: make sure you have plenty of time aside to read this book. This is not the kind of book you’ll be happy to just read bits of on the bus. You will want to read it until you finish it or fall asleep. I read it in 2 sittings. The pace is extraordinary and you just. can’t. stop.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...the scenario is believable, but that doesn’t mean I have to like it. The marketing angle in this alone is crazy-making...This technical dissertation disguised as science fiction is actually filled with Pollyanna’s special magic for a lovely happily ever after. Just skip it.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelLike I said at the beginning of this review, The Martian is a freakin’ brilliant book. The further I got into it, the more I enjoyed it. Mark Watney is obviously the main character, but we meet others as well, who are as developed as time allows.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A Novel...the technically stuff was for the most part, addressed in a way that even a lay person could attempt to understand – which the author used technie words/theories, he also tried to dumb them down for normal people. I think if the story had just been limited to Mark’s POV, it would have been a lot weaker overall...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis is one of the best survival stories I've read recently...It's packed with science and physics, it's funny (truly spit take funny) and poignant, and once you get started, you are going to want to keep reading until you're done. It is a wild ride and, yes, it is rocket science.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelOn the positive side the level of detail here is amazingly intricate and the author tells you every single detail of every cliff-hanging situation and its eventual resolution. Also, the main character is one of those rare individuals who responds to stress with humor...
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelI breezed through the book in a little over a week (hey, I had Christmas and skiing to do) and I enjoyed almost every moment within it. Honestly, it’s a book I can’t recommend more highly.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian was amazing. The first few pages had me wondering if the science of it all was going to bore me to death, but Weir does an awesome job of bringing Mark Watney to life.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe praise for this novel is well-earned...It was satisfying and enjoyable. Once it's had long enough to rest, I'll revisit it again.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThis was a debut novel originally self-published, and so the protagonist’s character development and emotions are a bit on the weak side. However, I know my novels suffer from this as well, and its shouldn’t be a deterrent from reading.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelFinally, other than the excellent writing, I appreciated the accessible hard science fiction here. Like Michael Crichton, Andy Weir has made this a book that doesn’t dumb down the technical aspects but brings the readers up to what they need to understand while also not wasting time on the minutiae.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe novel is about Watney’s struggle to survive on Mars, and author Weir keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time, cheering him on. He also keeps you laughing with Watney’s sarcasm and wit.
Read Full Review of The Martian: A NovelThe Martian is a hell of a read. Weir’s pacing sits quite comfortably in that oft-occupied space between literary work and Hollywood summer blockbuster—more intelligently written and nuanced than the majority of popcorn fiction I’ve read in recent years, but still identifiably pop excitement in every sense. And that’s not a bad thing at all.
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