A review by cscharfway
The Calculating Stars by Mary Robinette Kowal

adventurous hopeful informative inspiring slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This book was very well written and researched. I found the contributions of the women as computers and pilots fascinating, and the blatant sexism they faced, made me want to scream. 

As someone who experiences anxiety, I could really relate to Elma’s struggle to acknowledge her issues. Her fear of being discovered taking medication hurt my heart and made me appreciate how steps have been taken in today’s society to break that stigma, though there is still a ways to go. 

I liked the diversity of the characters, and how Elma’s way of thinking began to be shaped by her friends of colour. I also thought Nathaniel was a dream of a husband.

The only criticism I have is that the book started really tense and strong, really making it appear to be a science fiction book, but it didn’t continue on with that tone which was a bit disappointing. I would have liked more apparent diverges from the main timeline. It’s more of a historical fiction book than a science fiction, which I do still love, it just wasn’t what I was expecting when I picked it up. 

If you liked Hidden Figures, you’ll like this. 

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