2001: A Space Odyssey

Another one bites the dust! Another science fiction book checked off my summer reading list.

2001: A Space Odyssey was another student recommendation. This book was short and an extremely quick read. At first the book seemed somewhat confusing. The first 8 chapters or so were divided into three sections that did not seem to relate. However, with any fun read the chapters and concepts all intersect eventually in a captivating way.

Space travel is the main topic of this book. The main character Bowman, his partner Poole, and the computer Hal are on a shuttle taking them to the outskirts of Jupiter looking for signs of intelligent life in the solar system. He, of course, finds more than he could imagine. The books seems to be setting up a sequel nicely (which actually does exist, 2010: A space Odyssey.) However, the author Clarke indicates that when he wrote the book, he felt that he had tied up the storyline completely so that there would be no need for a sequel. I like the concept that people could actually see the planets so that "space" would not seem like such an unknown. . .

Nonetheless, it was an enjoyable read. I am ready to foray out of the confines of science-fiction for my next book, but I would also recommend this read if you are looking for something quick and fun.