The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This novel is amazing. Probably the best Science Fiction novel I have ever read, and if not that, certainly in the top five. Hard-hitting theological questions detailed by tight knit interpersonal relationships and speculation about first contact with other sentient species. Very few flaws come to mind just after the first reading, but if I had to name one it would probably be how difficult it was to mentally picture Emilio Sandoz as a real human being, given how detailed his characterization is at the start, and how much he changes. I doubt it would trouble too many others. Though, speaking of troubling elements, this book is not fluffy and NOT for the faint of heart. Still, read it. READ IT.