The Sparrow

By: Mary Doria Russell

Narrated by: David Colacci

Length: 15 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

A visionary work that combines speculative fiction with deep philosophical inquiry, The Sparrow tells the story of a charismatic Jesuit priest and linguist, Emilio Sandoz, who leads a scientific mission entrusted with a profound task: To make first contact with intelligent extraterrestrial life. The mission begins in faith, hope, and beauty, but a series of small misunderstandings brings it to a catastrophic end.

©2008 Mary Doria Russell (P)2008 Brilliance Audio

Critic reviews

“A startling, engrossing, and moral work of fiction.” (The New York Times Book Review)

“Important novels leave deep cracks in our beliefs, our prejudices, and our blinders. The Sparrow is one of them.” (Entertainment Weekly)

“Powerful...The Sparrow tackles a difficult subject with grace and intelligence.” (San Francisco Chronicle)

A Considered Journey of Love & Suffering

More like 3.5 overall
Stick with this deeply woven tale primarily of 1 man's spiritual walk while amidst a wonderful group of people living with and loving each other as suffering & struggles occur. It is not a romance at all just good, layered fiction. I finished it in multiple settings, not being drawn in initially. It takes a minute to get to know and fall in love with the characters, but once you do, you will be willfully ensnared and carried slowly but beautifully until the end. It's not an easy or fun story, but it is an honest & human story many thoughtful adults can relate to. Life isnt easy. So, as a story about life & the role of spirituality & religion (there's a group of Jesuit priest & others considering faith), though not in an in-depth or highly theological way AT ALL, this story isnt easy either. But the heartfelt writing prevents the story from feeling hard or heavy, just true, unvarnished, real, and, at times at first, long.

Audible 20 Review Sweepstakes Entry

beautiful and disturbing, a transformative book

parts of this story are horrifying and yet those darkest parts do not feel gratuitous but are a necessary part of the narrative. I found this book uplifting and rewarding. the narration is also very well done. best book I have read this year.

I really enjoyed this story

I don't normally enjoy science fiction, but this story really drew me in. I liked the characters, I liked the friendships, and I enjoyed the discussions of science, linguistics, friendships, even sex. I liked following the priest's spiritual journey. the plot was interwoven in many surprising ways. I recommend this book.

Read it on Kindle, now listened on Audio

Great characters and character development, intriguing plot lines, and unexpected issues of morality. The book is shocking, because the were so careful to not change the culture, and the most innocent thing was what set off the major problem tor the Runa.

Heartbreaking

I enjoyed this book, but the hardship and pain that Emilio endured were just heartbreaking. Nevertheless, I recommend this read.

Great book and series!

What did you love best about The Sparrow?

I am a Christian and I love Science Fiction. This book and series is firing on both cylinders. MD Russell has crafted a great story with real in sites in faith and the human condition, and understanding of science and society.

What other book might you compare The Sparrow to and why?

Dune series.

Amazing Character Development and Story

I really enjoyed reading this book. The plot twists, character development, and overall story were all fantastic. It's such a well-written sci-fi book that you almost forget you're reading one.

Definitely not for everyone.

I don't want to give a negative review, especially for a book so we'll written. But you should know whether this book is for you before you buy it. The writing is great! The characters are very well developed. But, this is hardly sci-fi, and it's dark, and depressing.

The main thrust of this book is an exploration of the protagonist'feeling about God. That's not a spoiler, you come to realise this very soon in. And while the author uses elements of sci-fi as a vehicle for this exploration the sci-fi enthusiast will soon find this story tedious and overly contemplative.

About 2/3 in the story really feels like it's about to get going. Some interesting sci-fi elements are introduced along with some minor action and drama. But it never quite takes off and before you know it you're nearing the end and the subject of God is front and center again.

Now don't get me wrong, the spiritual component to this book is quite well done, but you really, really have to be interested in that to make this read worth your time. If you are interested in that, and you just want a bit of decent sci-fi along with it this may be your cup of tea.

The last thing I'll mention is this: this author really knows how to develop characters. I felt like I really knew almost each person in this book by the end. But, and this is huge, I never found myself liking the main character. I found him self absorbed, somewhat abrasive, and despite all the hardships he went through I never found myself rooting for him. In the end I can't say I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but I know there are some out there for whom this will be an amazing read.

I was sad when it ended

I loved the story and the characters. I rarely give a 5 to a book, but this one surprised me.

Stretch the 'ole brain cells

A sci fi story about a group of Jesuits is not my usual fare. However I enjoyed this, much in the way I enjoyed Mary Gentle's Orthe series (Audible how about recording that or her Ashe series?).
I'm interested in the connections and motivations of people and despite the sense of accelerating and impending doom for the travellers, I was intrigued by this study of faith and friendship. I did have a break from time to time, the Audio version of watching through fingers, wanting to know but afraid to proceed.
If you have a tolerance of the pacing of European movies, you may find much to appreciate.