Project Hail Mary is another Andy Weir sci-fi drama that taps into his science nerd instincts with grounded science and undeniable humanity. When a mysterious new microscopic alien lifeform starts “eating” the stars in our galaxy, including our sun, a team of scientists is tasked with figuring out why one nearby star seems immune. Leading the team is Ryland Grace, a failed microbiologist turned middle school teacher.
The trailer for the film adaptation already gives away the big twist, so I feel justified doing the same here: Grace ends up being one of three scientists sent on a mission to investigate that star, but wakes up alone after a coma-induced journey across space. Once there, he discovers more than he bargained for—another spaceship, with the sole survivor of an alien species also trying to solve the astrophage problem.
The bulk of the novel centers on their shared struggle, not just with the science of saving their worlds, but with communicating and connecting across species. It’s a fascinating premise: two civilizations at roughly the same technological level, both facing extinction. And it works. It’s smart, emotional, and weirdly touching.
But I do have a gripe. The amnesia gimmick at the beginning feels played out. It’s a lazy way to fill in the backstory of how Grace got on the ship, and it makes the early chapters feel a bit like a plot mechanic rather than real character development. Still, the payoff is there. For all the hard science and nerdy math, this is ultimately a story about friendship, resilience, and courage in the face of impossible odds.
Whether or not the movie with Ryan Gosling can pull it off is another question. The Iridians—spider-like rock creatures with no face, eyes, or mouth—don’t exactly scream cinematic. And the book is deeply introspective, which might not translate well. But Weir’s talent lies in making fantastic concepts feel plausible, and solving problems that feel genuinely unsolvable. He makes you believe that if you’re brave enough to persevere, you will inevitably find a better tomorrow.
Rating: A-
