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The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
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June Group Read Discussion: The Long Way to a Small Angry Planet (Wayfarers #1) by Becky Chambers
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1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book?
Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
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1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?
I don't recall having any expectations regarding this book except that I felt it would be unique and different from my typical book selections...and I was correct!!
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
I guess you could say so since I read it in 2020! 😉
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
Not necessarily, although I stated I would have never picked this up except for the 2019 Popsugar Reading Challenge Prompt #20-Read a Book Set in Space! in my Goodreads review! I imagine I might reread the first three in this series before finally reading the fourth installment, The Galaxy, and the Ground Within.
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
I admit I was fascinated by the title! It seemed long and yet also very specific.
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book?
Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
I remember being intrigued by the cover design.
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
I read in many different genres/subgenres, but I found this series to be one of my most enjoyable reads ever!! One thing I truly appreciate is that each book contains some of the recurring characters, but also introduces many new characters. Each book is a truly unique reading experience, IMO!
I have listed Becky Chambers as one of my "absolutely favorite authors" and would definitely read anything she writes! (I also adored the Monk & Robot duology!)
1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?I had heard some good reviews from the content creators I follow on BookTube, but I didn't really have any expectations going into the book.
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
I read this book at the end of April, but it was not already on my TBR list. It was actually an impulse purchase at the bookstore.
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
I'm not actively participating in the reading challenge this year, so I did not read it for any prompt.
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
The title is a big part of why I picked up the book. I thought it was really unique.
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book?
Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
My book has this cover...
. I wouldn't say it motivated me to read the book, but I did think it looked really cool.6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
I typically read a wide range of genres, but science fiction is definitely one of my favorites.
Having read this book, and the rest of the books in the series, I definitely want to read more Becky Chambers. I think her writing is fabulous!
I read this a few years ago, but I thought I'd chime in.1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?
I don't remember what I thought ahead of reading it, but I do now I was a little surprised. (view spoiler)
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
It was, for a bit before I read it. I definitely put it on my TBR when I heard about it, not sure how much longer it was before I got around to reading it.
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt? Nope, as I read it years ago. I read The Deep Sky for this prompt.
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting? Absolutely, although in retrospect that might have been part of what led to my confusion above. (view spoiler)
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book? Or does it make you hesitate to read it? I'm ambivalent about it - it's pretty, but I don't know if that, on it's own, would have made me pick the book up.
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre? Yes, I'm a big sci-fi reader.
Unfortunately I don't have too much more to say as I don't remember it well. I was thinking I might reread for this discussion, but I don't know that I'm going to get the chance.
My husband and I have been listening to this audiobook. He suggested it, and I had already read a space book, so it's not part of the challenge for me.It will also work as "Three or more POVs," since almost every crew member has POVs (though I have already filled that prompt, too).
I read a lot of scifi and fantasy. Most commonly, it's all human POV or all one non-human species POV. I like the broad mix in this book.
Dea wrote: "My husband and I have been listening to this audiobook.."I've been thinking about getting a copy of the audiobook at some point. Do you like the narrator?
1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?I have heard it is a good book so that is all the expectations I have for it.
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
It was but only recently, and I don't know if I would have gotten around to it without this prompt.
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
Yep, for the most part. It will also fulfill prompts in other challenges.
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
I do like the title. It is intriguing.
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book? Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
The cover is cool but doesn't sway me either way.
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
I do read a lot of mystery but not ones set in space or the future.
I finished the book and really enjoyed it. I don't read a lot of sci-fi, mostly due to not liking a few of the subtopics (time travel, alternate dimensions). This one felt like a regular story but with some different species, customs, and space problems vs. earth problems. I really got into the characters and picked some of those questions to answer.Which character is your favorite character? Why?
Dr. Chef was my favorite due to his calm, mentor-like persona.
Is there any one character with whom you can identify? Why?
I somewhat identify with Rosemary. She is the outsider to start and has to find her place. I have done this a couple of times in my life. She also really likes information as do I.
Is there one character who reminds you of someone you know in real life? In a good way or in a bad way?
I have a few friends and coworkers that remind me of Kizzy. Outgoing, bursting with energy, ready to go. I like them as friends since I tend to be more reserved and introverted.
SciFi is one of my favorite genres, and I think what made this book really stand out for me as one of my favorite SciFi novels (of all time) was the character-driven plot.Which character is your favorite character? Why?
I really liked all of the characters, but I feel like Sissix was my favorite. I thought her family structure and culture was really interesting, and I loved how affectionate she was. (view spoiler)
Is there any one character with whom you can identify? Why?
I think that as readers, we're meant to identify the most with Rosemary. She's our passport to the ship and the author's vision of the galaxy, and like us, she really doesn't have any previous experience with any of the situations that she encounters throughout the book.
Is there one character who reminds you of someone you know in real life? In a good way or in a bad way?
I had a college roommate who definitely reminds me of Kizzy, and in the best way possible. They are both super outgoing and personable.
I'm currently reading this, will do the other questions when I'm finished1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?
None really
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
No
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
I haven’t got another book to fulfil this prompt, so yes
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
A bit
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book? Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
Can’t say I have any strong feelings about it
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
No not really, my husband occasionally suggests Sci-Fi books to me but I usually struggle with them (Battlefield Earth!), this is pleasantly different though and I'm enjoying it
I loved this book when I read it several years ago. I have to say, the UK cover is way cooler! In my view, anyway.
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👍😁
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Unfortunately, I didn't get much of a chance to get to it in June either. But I'm going to carry on into July and hope to finish it by sometime July 3! Feel free to join me! LOL
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How cool that you are listening to it together! Awww... 👍😉
"It will also work as "Three or more POVs," since almost every crew member has POVs (though I have already filled that prompt, too)."
Thanks for mentioning that!
"I read a lot of scifi and fantasy. Most commonly, it's all human POV or all one non-human species POV. I like the broad mix in this book."
That was one of the aspects I most appreciated about this as well!
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(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
I do read a lot of mystery but not ones set in space or the future."
Me as well...
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Excellent! Thank you for doing this!! 👍🤗
"Which character is your favorite character? Why?
Dr. Chef was my favorite due to his calm, mentor-like persona."
Awww... I like your reasoning!
"Is there any one character with whom you can identify? Why?
I somewhat identify with Rosemary. She is the outsider to start and has to find her place. I have done this a couple of times in my life. She also really likes information as do I."
It would be tough to be Rosemary, wouldn't it?
"Is there one character who reminds you of someone you know in real life? In a good way or in a bad way?
I have a few friends and coworkers that remind me of Kizzy. Outgoing, bursting with energy, ready to go. I like them as friends since I tend to be more reserved and introverted."
LOL So you are attracted to those who are different from your innate nature. That is so interesting!
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I so agree with you!
"Which character is your favorite character? Why?
I really liked all of the characters, but I feel like Sissix was my favorite. I thought her family structure and culture was really interesting, and I loved how affectionate she was. (view spoiler)"
I loved Sissex as well. I think I was drawn to her the most due to her truly unique-ness in almost every aspect.
"Is there any one character with whom you can identify? Why?
I think that as readers, we're meant to identify the most with Rosemary. She's our passport to the ship and the author's vision of the galaxy, and like us, she really doesn't have any previous experience with any of the situations that she encounters throughout the book."
I love the way you express that! She is indeed our "passport"!
"Is there one character who reminds you of someone you know in real life? In a good way or in a bad way?
I had a college roommate who definitely reminds me of Kizzy, and in the best way possible. They are both super outgoing and personable."
Awww...that's so great!!
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(e.g. Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction Mystery…)
No not really, my husband occasionally suggests Sci-Fi books to me but I usually struggle with them (Battlefield Earth!), this is pleasantly different though and I'm enjoying it"
Yes, I felt it was a bit different for typical sci-fi and in a good way!
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I have to say, the UK cover is way cooler! In my view, anyway.
"You'll get absolutely no argument from me! Definitely cooler IMO!
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One of the things I had rather forgotten about this book that made me love it so much right at the beginning was the vocabulary. Chambers is a genius IMO at creating words!
Some examples that I noted:
ANSIBLE
MED
SCRIB
SMASH
SAPIENT
STIMS
HARMAGIAN
DEEPOD
VOX
HANTO
IMUBOTS
GLOBULB
REDWEED
I have made notes as to what I believe the definitions may be for each and will check as I continue reading.
I also love the characters' names!!
I will try to post a few more questions tomorrow.
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I loved this even more the second time around!
Which character is your favorite character? Why?
I believe one of the aspects I appreciate most about this book is the4 fact that each character develops from the beginning of the book to the end. They all evolve..
Perhaps Ashby struck me overall since he was not only the captain/leader of the ship, but also in love with a being from a different species, which was a no-no. So he had his own complex aspects to his personal life...
Is there any one character with whom you can identify? Why?
I just adore Kizzy and can see myself in her to a great degree, especially my "younger" much more impetuous self... She just evinces energy and effervescence that I think is much needed everywhere!
Is there one character who reminds you of someone you know in real life? In a good way or in a bad way?
Corbin. I have a very good friend whom others would probably say is 'crabby' or always in a bad mood, just like Corbin is in the beginning. Though he has never seemed that way to me. But he and I both share a wickedly cynical sense of humor that many others tend to 'not get', so there is that!
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2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
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1) What overall theme do you 'take away' from reading this book?
As someone commented above, I think we are to relate to Rosemary's status as a very inexperienced/innocent being among all these different species. I think that made the book even more relatable since we're also new to this whole world.
My 'take away'--no matter who or what, respect must be first and foremost when dealing with others, period! And each being needs to drop their own cultural/societal standards to better understand and relate to others. Be open to acceptance of others' experiences, differences, but especially be ready to site all the commonalities/similarities among us all!
2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
I do try my best to accept, respect, and appreciate others in my daily interactions, no matter the circumstances. I try...
3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
As I recall, this was really one of the first books that got me considering AI could basically become sentient. This was an eye-opening concept for me, but I feel it is possible....
4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
Oh, YES!! I plan to reread the second and third installments in this series and then finally read the fourth and final book.
I will forewarn you that the further sequential books do not deal with all the same characters, etc. There are some recurrent characters, but completely different settings, etc., so each book is, IMO, a very different adventure!
1) What overall theme do you 'take away' from reading this book?I definitely think that the most tangible theme of this book is the importance of respecting other people and their cultures.
But I also felt like the author really encouraged the acceptance and celebration of people's differences. The crew of the Wayfarer is very diverse, not only with respect to their species and cultures, but also their personalities. While there are some personality clashes, ultimately it's their differences that allow them to work so effectively as a team (view spoiler)
2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
This is definitely something that I strive for in my daily life. I feel like it would really benefit society if more people would put forth the effort to respect other people, learn about cultures other than their own, and celebrate diversity.
3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
I wouldn't say that any of my opinions or attitudes were changed by reading this book. I have consumed a lot of science fiction over the years though (both through print and television/movies), so I've encountered a lot of similar ideas and themes before.
4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
I definitely want to read more books by this author! I really enjoyed the world building and characters in all four books of the Wayfarers series, so I'm looking forward to diving into her Monk and Robot duology as soon as I get the chance.
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I definitely think that the most tangible theme of this book is the importance of respecting other people and their cultures.
But I also felt like the author really encouraged the acceptance and celebration of people's differences. The crew of the Wayfarer is very diverse, not only with respect to their species and cultures, but also their personalities. While there are some personality clashes, ultimately it's their differences that allow them to work so effectively as a team (view spoiler)"
Ooohh, yes! You state that so very well! Thank you!!
"2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
This is definitely something that I strive for in my daily life. I feel like it would really benefit society if more people would put forth the effort to respect other people, learn about cultures other than their own, and celebrate diversity."
Yes!! 👍
"3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
I wouldn't say that any of my opinions or attitudes were changed by reading this book. I have consumed a lot of science fiction over the years though (both through print and television/movies), so I've encountered a lot of similar ideas and themes before."
Cool!
"4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
I definitely want to read more books by this author! I really enjoyed the world building and characters in all four books of the Wayfarers series, so I'm looking forward to diving into her Monk and Robot duology as soon as I get the chance."
I loved that duology as well!
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Although I was initially shocked, I admit I felt someone should have done exactly that once they returned to the Wayfarer with the syringe. Though I could also understand everyone acquiescing to Ohan's stated wishes regarding the antidote... But by the end of the book I did feel as if (view spoiler)
I was (view spoiler) for them/him! And sometimes it takes another person with the fortitude to do the unthinkable to create a positive change... At least that was my thought.
What was your initial reaction to [spoilers removed]? Did your reaction change at all by the end of the book?"I have to admit that I had a really hard time with this part of the book, because the characters are faced with the question of what is more important... a person's life, or their religious convictions. While I certainly didn't want (view spoiler)
That being said, I think that this moment shows the way in which Corbin's personality has grown throughout the characters' journey. The Corbin we meet at the beginning of the book would not have been in a position to make the decision he does, given his apparent disinterest/distaste for interacting with others. The fact that he is in a position to make this decision shows how much he has come to care for the people around him. The decision he makes (view spoiler) But the question remains...does a positive outcome make Corbin's decision morally right?
L Y N N wrote: "Dea wrote: ""I read a lot of scifi and fantasy. Most commonly, it's all human POV or all one non-human species POV. I like the broad mix in this book."That was one of the aspects I most appreciated about this as well!"
If you've not read it yet, try Translation State from that perspective.
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I have to admit that I had a really hard time with this part of the book, because the characters are faced with the question of what is more important... a person's life, or their religious convictions. While I certainly didn't want (view spoiler)
That being said, I think that this moment shows the way in which Corbin's personality has grown throughout the characters' journey. The Corbin we meet at the beginning of the book would not have been in a position to make the decision he does, given his apparent disinterest/distaste for interacting with others. The fact that he is in a position to make this decision shows how much he has come to care for the people around him. The decision he makes (view spoiler) But the question remains...does a positive outcome make Corbin's decision morally right?"
Your reasoning is very sound. My thought as I read this the second time was that any extremist brainwashing can accomplish the same results as the virus did. Does that mean we allow a being to self-harm since they believe they are doing the right thing? It's a very gray area, IMO, and I think I'm usually on the impetuous side of it since my initial response is "No! Do whatever it takes to bring the being back to reality..." Though I'm uncertain that is the "morally right" reaction as you put it! 🤔
I think I did realize the evolution this represented in Corbin, but not sure I would have articulated it as clearly as you have. Thank you for pointing it out!
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That was one of the aspects I...
If you've not read it yet, try Translation State from that perspective."
I have not read any of Leckie's writing yet, but it is on my TBR! (Of course it is! LOL) Thanks for the recommendation!
1) What overall theme do you 'take away' from reading this book?I agree with the take away of learning about and respecting other cultures. It was so interesting to imagine the different characters and how they would behave and work with each other.
2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
To me, this solidifies the need for all of us to learn about other cultures and to realize that our ways may not be others. It stresses the need for patience and understanding in the world.
3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
It really made me think about how we should all be mindful of others cultures and respect each other especially as the world is becoming more and more connected.
4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
I would like to read more. I really enjoyed her writing and character development.
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I agree with the take away of learning about and respecting other cultures. It was so interesting to imagine the different characters and how they would behave and work with each other."
It certainly was! Even the furniture, to accommodate tails, etc.!
2) How does it resonate for you in your daily life? Or does it not at all?
To me, this solidifies the need for all of us to learn about other cultures and to realize that our ways may not be others. It stresses the need for patience and understanding in the world.
Couldn't have stated it better!
"3) Were your opinions, attitudes, or insights changed at all by reading this book? (e.g. toward AI, technology, society/culture...)
It really made me think about how we should all be mindful of others cultures and respect each other especially as the world is becoming more and more connected."
Yes, at least we should feel as if we are all more connected. Unfortunately, some people still seem 'stuck' and unable or unwilling to learn much of anything...about themselves...about other people...etc.
"4) Do you want to read more of Chambers' writing? Why or why not?
I would like to read more. I really enjoyed her writing and character development."
I don't think you would be disappointed by reading her other books!
So my library hold finally came in. Better late than never.1) What, if any, expectations do you have for this book?
I have high hopes. I've heard good things and I've read and loved other books by Becky Chambers.
2) Was this book already on your TBR listing?
Yep.
3) Are you reading this book for the express purpose of fulfilling this specific Popsugar prompt?
Well, I still have the set in space prompt open, but I'll see if it works for any harder prompts first.
4) Do you find the title of this book to be particularly interesting?
Not really.
5) What about the cover image? Does it motivate you to read this book?
Or does it make you hesitate to read it?
I didn't like the original cover that I saw, but the copy I have is a different cover and I like it much better.
It looks like a knockoff cover, which made me think it was a knockoff story.
I just like it a bit better. It's still pretty generic looking, but it's not ugly clashing colours.
6) Do you typically read books in this genre/subgenre?
About 50% - 60% of my reading is SFF. I really like the scifi that's borderline fantasy.
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Books mentioned in this topic
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (other topics)The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (other topics)
Translation State (other topics)
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (other topics)
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Becky Chambers (other topics)Becky Chambers (other topics)
Becky Chambers (other topics)
National Meteor Watch Day is June 30!
And who is the "cool Captain" who will volunteer to lead this discussion? Please message either Nadine or myself to volunteer!We are on our own for this month! I will post some questions to help get us started. (Thank you to Nadine for moving the June discussion posts to this folder for everyone! I cannot believe I completely overlooked the beginning of the new month! Needless to say, I now have a reminder on my calendar for each month. I really am getting old...)HERE is a listing of potential discussion questions. These are meant to not only help those who volunteer to facilitate these monthly discussions but also to provide ideas for members participating in discussions!
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