The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell

The Sparrow

The Sparrow #1

Mary Doria Russell

528 pages • first pub 1996 (editions)

fiction fantasy science fiction challenging reflective medium-paced

Description

In 2019, humanity finally finds proof of extraterrestrial life when a listening post in Puerto Rico picks up exquisite singing from a planet that will come to be known as Rakhat. While United Nations diplomats endlessly debate a possible first con...

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Community Reviews Summary of 4,572 reviews

Moods

dark 72%
emotional 66%
challenging 59%
reflective 58%
adventurous 54%
sad 54%
tense 29%
mysterious 27%
inspiring 13%
hopeful 12%
funny 9%
informative 5%

Pace

medium 56%
slow 39%
fast 3%

Plot- or character-driven?

A mix: 62% | Character: 28% | Plot: 7%

Strong character development?

Yes: 85% | It's complicated: 12% | No: 2%

Loveable characters?

Yes: 71% | It's complicated: 21% | No: 7%

Diverse cast of characters?

Yes: 79% | It's complicated: 9% | No: 9% | N/A: 1%

Flaws of characters a main focus?

Yes: 62% | It's complicated: 22% | No: 13% | N/A: 1%

Average rating

4.15

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Content Warnings

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