Rating: ★★★½ (3.57/5) | Pages: 275 | Publisher: Hyperion | Buy on Amazon
A Galactic Rescue Mission for Arthur Dent
Eoin Colfer, best known for the Artemis Fowl series, steps into Douglas Adams' wildly imaginative universe with And Another Thing..., the sixth book in the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy series. Tasked with reviving a beloved franchise, Colfer delivers a story that blends his trademark wit with Adams' signature absurdity—though not without some polarizing reactions from fans.
What Works: Humor, Heart, and Zany Continuity
Colfer’s greatest success lies in capturing the quirky, irreverent tone of the original series. Fans praised his ability to mimic Adams’ style, from the ludicrous bureaucratic aliens to the existential tangents that made the series iconic. The return of Arthur Dent, Ford Prefect, and Zaphod Beeblebrox feels nostalgic, while new characters like the thunder-god-wannabe Wowbagger add fresh chaos.
The plot—a last-ditch effort to save Earth (again)—is packed with clever callbacks and self-aware humor. Colfer’s prose shines in moments like the Guide’s footnotes, where absurd trivia and witty observations keep the spirit of Adams alive.
Where It Stumbles: The Shadow of Adams
While Colfer’s effort is commendable, some readers felt the book lacked the razor-sharp satire of Adams’ work. The humor occasionally veers into forced zaniness, and a few plot threads (like Trillian’s subplot) feel underdeveloped. Purists might argue that no sequel could truly match the original’s genius—but Colfer’s attempt is arguably the best the series could’ve hoped for.
Is It Worth Reading?
For die-hard Hitchhiker fans, this book is a fun, if imperfect, encore. It doesn’t surpass Adams, but it honors his legacy with affection and energy. Newcomers should start with the originals, but those craving one more intergalactic romp will find plenty to enjoy.
Final Verdict: A spirited tribute that’s more "mostly harmless" than groundbreaking—but sometimes, that’s enough.
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