Book Reviews

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW

Author: Andy Weir Genre: Science Fiction Reviewer: David Schneider, Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library

Project Hail Mary is the latest novel by the author of The Martian, Andy Weir. The story follows Ryland Grace, one of the coolest science teachers ever, after he wakes up from a coma to discover he’s on a spaceship hurtling through interstellar space. The problem is, he can't even remember his name or his exact mission. Gradually, his memories start coming back to him and, to his horror, he realizes he’s humanity’s last hope and he’s on a “Hail Mary” mission to another solar system. Desperate, alone, and with the clock winding down, he’ll have to “science” his way out of all kinds of trouble if he wants to save mankind.

This is a thoroughly imaginative, scientifically sound, and emotionally stirring science fiction novel that is easily accessible and hard to put down. One of the best things about Andy Weir is that he makes science fiction books that talk about science in a very readable way, and Project Hail Mary is no exception. Fans of The Martian will have another smart, sarcastic, witty—as well as stranded—main character to fall in love with once again. This title is available in print or as a downloadable eBook.

For more recommendations, stop by your local library or contact the SOKC Public Library at 405.979.2200. Find Library events and more information at pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download the PLS Connect app!

“Finn lives by the sea and the sea lives by him.” Ocean Meets Sky by author Terry Fan is a beautifully illustrated love letter to the sea and the transformative power of the stories our loved ones tell us. Our main character, Finn, lives in a little house by the sea. The story begins with Finn building a wooden toy boat in honor of the birthday of his grandfather, who was a sailor and great storyteller. From here, the reader sets off an a truly magical adventure that will bring a tear to your eye and joy to your heart. Highly recommend! Ocean Meets Sky is the perfect parent-child (or grandparent-child) read aloud book and great for ages 3-7 or grades K through 3rd and has an AR reading level of 2.3.

To connect with a copy of Ocean Meets Sky and other ocean adventure themed reads, please visit the Moore Public Library Children’s Desk or call us at 405.793.4347. We invite you to visit us online at pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download our app, PLS Connect. We look forward to serving you!

Ocean Meets Sky

Author: Terry Fan Genre: Picture Book Reviewer: Heather Fellenstein, Library Associate, Children’s Services, Moore Public Library