The Sparrow

I didn't know this book beforehand. I went for it because it was selected as the read of the Month for January by the Sword&Laser Bookclub. Finished a bit too late but voila, better late than never.

Science-Fiction, religious questioning, aliens, likable characters (Anne and Sophia), good use of past/present chapters.

I would like to see more focus on the time that has passed on earth in the almost 50 years between travels (time-relativity). However, the author did an intelligent workaround when John asked Sandoz if he didn't care at all about all the things that had changed when he was away, and he answered that after what he had seen and passed, nothing could surprise him anymore.

The religious theme dominates the book, but I don't find it really intrusive or that it is trying to convert the reader to a religion. Nonetheless, if potential readers have very strong feelings about their religious beliefs, this book may not be suitable for them.

Now I will just have to pick up the second and final book to know, in the end, where Sandoz will stand about his doubts about God.

Here's a link related to what starts it all in the book: http://www.space.com/26000-alien-life-prediction-congress-hearing.html”