The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet

Bookseller recommendation

“This gripping, diverse novel, set well after Earth's residents have scattered to Mars, other planets, and itinerant spacecraft, is as scientifically and sociopolitically plausible as any science fiction I've ever read or listened to. The characters, from a variety of alien species along with AI, have wide-ranging journeys that speak to our current reality and to issues of immigration, xenophobia, colonization, economic class, technological advancement, environmentalism, and more. The members of one species are all born female and becomes male later on, of another all use "they" pronouns, and of another are free with their touch and affection and find amusement in human hangups about touch. In the midst of all this complex representation emerges a story that stands alone as cohesive, meaningful, and powerful.”

— Emily • A Seat at the Table Books

Bookseller recommendation

“How to be human? What better way to learn than from exploring the diverse species of the universe in this gem from Becky Chambers. I stand by my assertion that this book should be required reading for high schoolers. Learn how to work with all kinds of people and understand that there are many ways to lead, many ways to care, many ways to be yet another sentient being in this universe. ”

— Solomon • Eureka Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Becky Chambers has been a favorite author of mine since the first time I picked this book up in 2019. I’ve since read everything she’s written and while I’m hanging by a thread awaiting her next book, The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet is still my favorite. You can’t beat the characters, the humor, the representation… If you’re a fan of space operas and/or books like The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, you’re gonna want to add Chambers to your TBR! ”

— Brittany • Ruby's Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Sometimes, you read a book that makes you smile inside and out. This book feels like a warm fuzzy hug, and I love it! This is a cozy space opera with loveable and flawed characters who are kind and considerate and try their best to do the right thing despite the harsh galaxy they exist in. I love the found family development in this novel. And yes, there is a small angry planet, and I can't wait to see what trouble it stirs up and how our ragtag crew will handle future events. I loved this book so much! It is the ultimate comfort-read book! I listened to the audiobook on Libro, and the reader does a great job of whisking you away on an epic space adventure. ”

— Anna • The Well-Read Moose

Bookseller recommendation

“Becky Chambers is my new favorite science fiction author. The Wayfarers series is so emotionally satisfying. I know "cozy mysteries" is a genre, and I'm not sure if "cozy sci-fi" is really a thing or not, but it is kind of how I think about this series. It's fun, smart, character driven goodness. ”

— Josh • Underground Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This is the funnest, tenderest, most lovable space romp you’ll ever take. There’s a fun plot but the real reason to read this book is the crew of the Wayfarer. Fair warning: You’ll want to follow them anywhere! With inter-species romance, plenty of pronouns, and space-age wisdom, this book made us feel more tender to our own young species of Homo Sapiens and to ourselves. Highly recommend for fun, for fans of science-fiction, and for self-care.”

— Megan & Josh • Underground Books