The Sparrow

Title: The Sparrow Author: Mary Doria Russell Genre:  Science Fiction Length: 405 pages (paperback) Sensitive Content:  Some  (Will give plot away) Rating:  4 out of 5

We are introduced to Father Emilio Sandoz after he returns to Earth from a mission of exploration.  The setting alternates from his history before he left Earth, Rakhat, and then the modern day Earth he returns to (2060).

Emilio is a linguist and is moved around quite a bit during his first few years as a priest.  When he is finally given his choice of assignments he returns to his birthplace in Puerto Rico convincing his friends George and Anne that their skills would be beneficial to his new congregation.  It doesn't take much convincing and the three of them are off!

Anne re-establishes the local clinic.  George volunteers as a docent at the Arecibo dish, where he meets Jimmy.  The four of them become fast friends.  Jimmy learns that his job is to be automated, makes a deal with his boss, and Sophia is brought into the group, continuing to round out the dynamics.

When Jimmy uncovers beautiful music from a nearby system, the lives of these friends, plus three additional priests, takes a new turn.  They are suddenly planning their trip to Alpha Centuri.

This book was not overly "religious".  However, it does show us how Emilio's origination in the priesthood is more of a feeling of safety and acceptance, to that of knowing God and finally feeling abandoned by God.  This was Emilio's spiritual journey.

The characters were well developed and I often felt as if I was in Anne's home as she was entertaining the group.  Once the team was on Rakhat, I did often get confused as to what exactly was happening.  It wasn't always easy for me to follow.

There is a sequel to the book: Children of God.  If I happen to come across it I will read it, but I found this book to be fine as a stand alone.