Discover books similar to "The Calculating Stars"
Mary Robinette Kowal
The Calculating Stars
"The Calculating Stars" by Mary Robinette Kowal is a captivating alternate history novel that combines science fiction and historical fiction in a unique and engaging way. The story is set in an alternate 1950s America, where a meteorite has hit Earth, causing massive climate changes and setting off a race to colonize space. The protagonist of the novel is Elma York, a mathematician and pilot who is determined to be a part of the astronaut program. However, she faces significant barriers due to her gender and the societal norms of the time. Kowal skillfully explores themes of sexism, racism, and the challenges of working in a male-dominated field, while also delving into the technical aspects of space travel. One of the strengths of "The Calculating Stars" is the vivid and detailed world-building. Kowal has done extensive research into the history of space travel and the social and political climate of the 1950s, and it shows in the richness of the novel's setting. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the pacing is fast and engaging. The novel also explores the ethical implications of space travel and colonization, as well as the potential consequences of climate change. These themes add depth and complexity to the story, and make it a thought-provoking and rewarding read. Overall, "The Calculating Stars" is a compelling and well-written novel that will appeal to fans of both historical and science fiction. It is a powerful exploration of gender, race, and the challenges of working in a male-dominated field, set against the backdrop of an alternate history that is both fascinating and terrifying. Highly recommended.
List of books similar to "The Calculating Stars":
Becky Chambers
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
If you loved 'The Calculating Stars' for its character development and world-building, then you'll enjoy 'The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet'. This book follows a motley crew of space explorers as they embark on a journey to a distant planet. Along the way, they encounter various alien species and face challenges that test their relationships and their resolve. This book is a heartwarming and optimistic story about the power of friendship and the beauty of diversity.
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Ann Leckie
Ancillary Justice
Fans of 'The Calculating Stars' who are interested in exploring the theme of artificial intelligence further should check out 'Ancillary Justice'. This book tells the story of Breq, a former AI who used to control a starship and its crew. After a betrayal, Breq is left in a single human body and seeks revenge against those who wronged her. This book is a complex and thought-provoking exploration of identity, consciousness, and power.
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Mary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
If you enjoyed 'The Calculating Stars' for its blend of science fiction and historical fiction, then you'll appreciate 'The Sparrow'. This book tells the story of a Jesuit mission to another planet, where they discover a new intelligent species. However, things quickly go awry, and the mission faces tragedy and loss. This book is a profound and moving exploration of faith, culture, and the human condition.
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Ursula K. Le Guin
The Left Hand of Darkness
Readers who loved 'The Calculating Stars' for its exploration of gender and sexuality should check out 'The Left Hand of Darkness'. This book is set on a planet where inhabitants can choose their gender and sexuality, and it explores the themes of identity, culture, and communication. This book is a classic of science fiction and a thought-provoking read.
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Andy Weir
The Martian
If you enjoyed 'The Calculating Stars' for its survival story set in space, then you'll love 'The Martian'. This book tells the story of Mark Watney, an astronaut who is left behind on Mars and must figure out how to survive until help arrives. This book is a thrilling and humorous story about ingenuity, perseverance, and the human spirit.
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James S. A. Corey
The Expanse series
Fans of 'The Calculating Stars' who are looking for a space opera with political intrigue and complex characters should check out The Expanse series. This series is set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, and it follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate political alliances, space battles, and personal conflicts. This series is a thrilling and immersive read.
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Octavia Butler
Kindred
Readers who loved 'The Calculating Stars' for its exploration of race and gender should check out 'Kindred'. This book tells the story of Dana, a black woman who is transported back in time to the antebellum South, where she must navigate the dangerous world of slavery and fight for her survival. This book is a powerful and moving exploration of the legacy of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit.
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Liu Cixin
The Three-Body Problem
Fans of 'The Calculating Stars' who are interested in exploring the theme of first contact should check out 'The Three-Body Problem'. This book tells the story of a Chinese astrophysicist who receives a message from an alien civilization and must navigate the political and scientific challenges of making first contact. This book is a thought-provoking and thrilling read.
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China Miéville
The City & the City
Readers who loved 'The Calculating Stars' for its exploration of alternate histories should check out 'The City & The
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