A Journey Like No Other: Exploring The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
When I first stumbled upon The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers, the title alone intrigued me. It conjured images of adventure and the promise of diving into a world far removed from our own, yet deeply reflective of our humanity—or, in this case, our non-humanity. I often find myself yearning for stories that embrace the social complexities of life beyond Earth, and Chambers’ novel delivers a rich tapestry of interstellar uniqueness wrapped in warmth and inclusivity.
At its core, this is a modern sci-fi tale that doesn’t boast cutting-edge science but focuses instead on the social dimensions of existence among a diverse crew aboard the Wayfarer, a hyperspace tunneling ship. The narrative introduces us to Corbin, who can easily be described as “a complete asshole,” but soon surrounds him with characters who exhibit kindness and compassion, creating a delightful contrast. The crew is a mix of species, backgrounds, and quirks, each bringing something special to the table, allowing readers to connect with them on various levels.
Chambers masterfully constructs a fiery plot centered around the challenging mission to create a hyperspace shortcut to a war-torn planet. While the stakes are high, the darker themes are external rather than internal, making the journey feel more like a group endeavor than an individual struggle. The chapters feel self-contained, allowing for explorations of individual backstories and diverse perspectives, though I found myself wanting a more cohesive narrative arc.
What captivated me most were the characters, their relationships, and the nuanced world-building. The intimate details of life aboard the Wayfarer—think of soft curtains, restorative tea, and a contemplative garden—added an endearing domestic realism to the space setting. It’s the type of setting where even the mundane becomes meaningful and reminds us of what it means to have a sense of home, even if it’s a temporary one. Captain Ashby’s care for his crew’s mental wellbeing further underpins this warmth, allowing the reader to invest in their journey.
One particularly striking aspect of the story is its approach to diversity. Chambers weaves a tale where cultural commonalities exist, yet the characters grapple with varied perspectives on topics as delicate as hygiene. The embrace of non-traditional relationships, different body shapes, and sensory experiences is undeniably refreshing. I was fascinated by how Rosemary, our new clerk and thoughtful observer, navigates these complexities without falling into the trap of performative allyship. Her journey of learning to avoid speciesism offered depth and insight.
Quotables abound, too. One memorable line struck me: “War was nothing more than a story to him, something that happened to people he didn’t know in places he’d never been to.” This notion of distance—from conflict and its consequences—resonated deeply with my own reflections on current events. It highlights how stories can shape our understanding of the world, a theme that flows throughout the novel.
Despite its strengths, I did feel that the book leaned a bit into the idealistic; societal conflicts resolved too easily for my taste. I would have welcomed more tension to challenge the characters and elevate the stakes, but perhaps that’s not the point. This isn’t a book about the darkness of space but about finding connection and warmth amidst the stars.
In conclusion, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is a beautiful testament to inclusivity, compassion, and the diversity of life, both human and otherwise. It invites readers to explore relationships that defy convention and reflects the beauty found in our differences. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone craving a feel-good sci-fi romp, and I’m eager to dive into the next installment in the Wayfarers series. Chambers’ work has rekindled my own sense of curiosity about life and relationships across the cosmos—a journey I hope you’ll embark on, too.
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