Artemis by Andy Weir

Once upon a time I would frequently buy books off of the "Buy 2 Get the 3rd Free" table at Barnes and Noble. One of those times there were two books I really wanted off the table, so I just grabbed a third one that had a nice looking cover without paying any attention to what it was, it didn't matter what it was because it was going to be free anyway *shrug*. And that is the story of how the first book I read by Andy Weir wasn't "The Martian" and I discovered my new favorite sci-fi novel.

"Artemis" is the story of Jazz Bashara, a porter/smuggler in the first city on the moon. Early on in the book she gets hired to do a particularly destructive job which, of course, doesn't go quite according to plan. Many shenanigans ensue. Of course there is a lot more, but I cannot tell you more without giving too much of the story away.

I really loved this book. Something Andy Weir is known for in his novels is the fact that he talks about complicated technology in a way that doesn't make his readers feel stupid. I may not understand any of the technology that is used in this story, but that doesn't keep me from understanding and enjoying the story. Also, the cast of characters was a joy to get to know. The characters were diverse and interesting and easy to keep straight in my head. This was the kind of book that I almost wished there was a book for each character because they could all be fascinating protagonists.

It was particularly wonderful to get inside of Jazz's head. My favorite part of her character was that she was the person in the book that is just good at everything with the explanation of "she's just really smart". I don't remember the last time I read a story where that stereotype was put on a female character and it was a joy to read. It was refreshing to see some of those stereotypically masculine characteristics assigned to a female character.

This is a book that I would definitely recommend. The plot will take you on a journey with many twists and turns that will continually surprise you, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

XO, Ellen