Author Weir takes readers to the moon in Artemis

Andy Weir, author of The Martian, takes readers to another desolate world, but instead of the Red Planet it's the moon, in his new novel, Artemis.

Weir takes readers on an exploration of the colonization of Earth's nearest neighbor in outer space - which is not set too far into the future. Almost everything needed for the modules in the city of Artemis can be reasonably manufactured on the moon's surface, along with the occasional supply runs and tourist visits from home. Each living habitat is named after a prominent member of the original Apollo programs, but each area has distinct features associated with them, whether they are for the affluent or those barely able to scrape by and survive.

Living in the poorer end of Artemis is Jasmine Bashara, aka Jazz. She has talent and is intelligent, but chooses to skate by in life.

She works as a porter for tourists or local residents who need their packages from Earth handled discreetly. She blows a field test that would have landed her a job taking tourists to explore the area around the original landing site of Apollo 11. Upset and not thinking clearly, Jazz receives an offer that promises more money than she can imagine if she can successfully pull off the dangerous assignment. She has the skills and the knowledge, but does she have the luck and equipment necessary to keep her in the clear when damage control begins?

Jazz is a compelling character, both clever and sharp. Weir has created a realistic and fascinating future society on the moon, and every detail feels authentic and scientifically sound.

Weir knows how to make cutting-edge science sexy and relevant without losing the story.

Associated Press

(China Daily 11/24/2017 page19)