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Dec 23, 2020sjpl_jtlee rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
A thrilling science-fiction novel, The Martian builds upon the scenario of a failed expedition to Mars, with an astronaut—Mark Watney—left on its surface. Though assumed to be dead, Watney miraculously lives, and strives to survive in hopes that a rescue mission may arrive. Luckily, Watney is equipped with skills that will be beneficial to his survival, such as botanical and engineering knowledge. When NASA realizes that he is alive, scientists strive to find a way to bring Watney home, and before long a rescue expedition is planned. Will Watney be rescued successfully? If you want to find out, the answer’s revealed in the book. There are lots of mood shifts in this novel, as the author cleverly inserts negative situations for Watney. Reading about the astronaut’s failures is frustrating, but they also allow for a constant thrill, which I enjoyed. I’d recommend this book to persistent readers wanting a thrilling adventure, as the astronaut’s shortcomings can be quite stressing to read. Age rating: 13 and up for reading level and mild swearing