General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your first impressions of the protagonist Ryland Grace and his mission? 

2. Considering Ryland Grace’s interactions and relationship with Rocky and the Eridians, what did you enjoy the most about his character arc? What did you enjoy the least?

3. Consider The Martian, also by Andy Weir. How do both books navigate the interconnectedness of human isolation and problem-solving to protect others?

Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Have you ever experienced the slow return of significant memories? How does your relationship with your memory allow you to relate, or not relate, to Ryland?

2. One of the book’s themes is survival and sacrifice. What are some of the sacrifices you have made for others? What sacrifices have others made for you, and how does this affect your reading of the novel?

3. Consider your personal views on interspecies friendships on any scale. Did the relationship between Ryland and Rocky evoke feelings of interspecies companionship in you?

4. Ryland waking alone on a ship destined for sacrifice and finding his companions deceased is emotional.