Book Summary - Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

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In this episode of Literature on the Rocks…

we’re suiting up and heading into orbit with Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. It’s got aliens, world-ending stakes, and more scientific problem-solving than a season of MythBusters. And guess what? Rox—our resident fantasy hater—loved it. Apparently aliens are fine… but dragons? Absolutely not. Go figure.

We talk about the totally unexpected (and totally adorable) friendship between Ryland Grace and Rocky. Somehow, Andy Weir made us cry over a multi-armed alien who clicks to communicate, and we’re not okay. Their bond gave the book heart, humor, and plenty of moments that had us in our feels.

Then there’s Stratt—who casually has more power than the president and doesn’t even flinch while making earth-shattering decisions. Intense? Yes. Effective? Also yes. Terrifying? Definitely.

We also dig into why sci-fi might just be fantasy in a space suit. There are strange creatures, impossible tech, and completely made-up stuff… but don’t tell Rox that. She’s still riding the high of loving a sci-fi book and we’re not here to ruin it.

Naturally, we needed a drink as bold and glittery as space itself. Say hello to:

Tao Ceti Sunrise Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Blue Curaçao

• 1 oz Vodka (or space-approved moonshine)

• 1 oz Coconut Rum

• ½ oz Lime Juice

• ½ oz Simple Syrup

• 2 oz Tonic Water (for that sci-fi glow)

• Splash of Grenadine

• Rimmed with edible glitter

Directions:

Shake all but the tonic and grenadine with ice, pour into a glitter-rimmed glass, and top with tonic water. Slowly pour in grenadine for that sunrise-from-space effect. Sip while contemplating the fate of humanity.

Think you’ve got thoughts about Rocky, Ryland, and Stratt’s power trip? We want to hear them! Head over and answer this week’s prompts—you might just get featured in our next episode. After all, if you’re going to yell about space books, why not do it with us?