If you want to go on an exciting underdog story full of laughter and optimism that still keeps you on your seat till the very end, read this book. The technical jargon can be a bit much at times but it was never enough to ruin the experience for me. Also if you liked the movie, you will I’ve this book no questions asked. Just read it, it’s phenomenal.

A fantastic read. 
I was hung up to every page. There is a lot of humour in this novel. It also feels very real even if it’s sci-fi, with all the scientific data and details. 
We experience all the emotions of Mark Watney, alone on Mars, and of the NASA crew. 
I really appreciated the writing: it felt as if I was there with the hero, trying to survive. 
Higly recommended. 

The next time I get stranded on Mars, I’m bringing this with me.

Man, this was- I have no words.
I’m in awe, wonder, and “surreal-ness” all wrapped in one, created this gut feeling that I’m so in love with.

It felt real. Truly. It felt like I read Mark Watney’s actual biography, if he was a real person. I love this. The movie stayed true to the original and I am so grateful. It’s a truly beautiful and unique story that I am glad to experience at least once in my life. This is one of those books that you cannot, or will not, stop thinking about.

One of the first books I wish I could rate 6+ stars on.

I really enjoyed this book, how lighthearted and funny it was even though the characters were going through a lot. I also felt like I was learning stuff about science that I hadn’t before and I really enjoyed how it was done. 

Sci-fi/Thriller, Humorous, Cerebral

I love science fiction so I was pretty sure I’d like this book. Well I LOVED it. I am surprised this was Weir’s first novel. His choice to tell the story with journal entries adds to the charm and intrigue of the book. The main character, Mark Watney, has charisma and is very funny which creates an explosive tone of drama and humor, light and dark. Watney is the perfect character for this story-the story is good regardless but the main character enhances every moment. 

This book was tense. The premise is striking and a suspenseful idea, reading the book delivers tenfold on that promise with an exhilarating and terrifying story splattered with triumph. Mark Watney and his story feels incredibly real and I felt I was there with him on every page, cheering him on. A remarkable book, an experience I am glad to have had. 

Some of Weir’s writing is a little awkward and clunky. Mostly

in conversations between multiple characters (especially early on in the book). He has the characterization for Watney down, but the supporting characters are weaker at times.

This usually bothers me, but when the book is so unbelievably good as a whole, it’s a small complaint. 

I didn’t understand quite a lot of the scientific explanations, thankfully Weir writes in a way that helps the audience follow along anyhow. I’m not a good source, but the science fiction seems to be built on really solid scientific theory-and that elevates the book. 

The back cover features many quotes that say you won’t want to put this book down and it’s true. It’s a gift rare to find a book that engages me this much. I really recommend this book! 

The Martian is the perfect mix of science, space disasters, and sarcasm. Mark Watney’s humor kept even the slower moments entertaining. The science fascinated me and the tension held me captive. Nearly perfect—I’d give it 4.75 potatoes out of 5!