Somehow The Martian ended up on my reading list and I am quite happy that it did. I found it difficult to put down, even more so that some of the other books that I have been reading recently. From someone who is somewhat technically inclined, the science seemed legit, at least to the point where I found no trouble accepting the narrative. Combine the decent science with the fact that the story was unique and humorous, and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I would highly recommend it.

The Martian is a bit of futuristic Robinson Crusoe set on Mars. There are twists and turns, with the majority of the narative told in the first person by a man alone on planet Mars. This is a cool setting with a lot of potential, and although the writing didn't blow me away, it was sufficient to weave a compelling tale.

I have a feeling this will be turned in to a movie, and I believe that the movie will be pretty good. There were quite a few moments of comic relief that made the book really stand out. Too often sci-fi can come across as overly serious to try and make itself more than it is. This book doesn't take itself too seriously, which I think makes the moments of tension more believeable and easier to swallow, because otherwise you wouldn't be sure when you can relax. There are a few surprises which keep things interesting, and seeing as it is a book, you kinda expect it to only end in one possible way, but the journey is still a roller coaster.

Reading this made me remember how much I enjoy sci-fi and the concept of space travel in general. I think I will have to incorporate more sci-fi on to my reading list of the coming months. I really like this idea of reading whatever I find interesting rather than what I deem to be necessary. Each book I read helps me to better understand what I like to read, which further refines my future reading list. The feedback cycle is pretty good. I am surprised one of my random picks has not been "bad" besides the one I read because I thought I had to.