Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Action-packed quest for survival is funny and poignant.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In PROJECT HAIL MARY, Ryland Grace wakes up on a spaceship with no recollection of who he is or what he's doing there. As his memories slowly return, he realizes he's the sole survivor of a last-chance mission to save the Earth and all of humanity. With his crewmates dead and his memories fragmented, Ryland must figure out how to survive long enough to complete his mission. Alone and incomprehensibly far from Earth, he has only himself to rely on ... or so he thinks.
Is It Any Good?
Funny and action-packed, this novel is science fiction at its best. Project Hail Mary weaves between two timelines, allowing the reader to discover Ryland Grace's past as he does, allowing for some fun revelatory moments. Grace is a likable character who is easy to root for, adding tension as he navigates the isolation of being alone in space, and the inevitable end to his suicide mission. The science is interesting and complex enough to feel realistic to the layperson, but light enough to keep the general reader engaged. However, the real charm of the story is the friendship between Rocky and Grace. The balance of action, humor, friendships, and philosophical thought about sacrifice, loneliness, and fear make this a must-read for any sci-fi fan.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Ryland Grace's character and what makes him the right person for the job. Right away, Stratt trusts Grace. What does she see in him that he doesn't see in himself? Does he have integrity, courage, problem-solving skills? What else?
Do you think the amount of science adds to the story or makes it harder to follow?
Grace and Rocky work together to solve their problems. Why do you think the author chose to build such a strong friendship between these very different characters? How would the story be different if they chose not to trust one another at the outset?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : STEM , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Curiosity , Empathy , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Ballantine Books
- Publication date : May 4, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 496
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : April 10, 2026
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