Book Review: "Artemis" by Andy Weir – A Thrilling Lunar Adventure

A Fun, Fast-Paced Sci-Fi Heist on the Moon

Andy Weir, the bestselling author of The Martian, takes readers on another exhilarating sci-fi journey with Artemis. This time, the adventure unfolds on the Moon, in the first (and only) lunar city, Artemis. With a 3.69/5 rating from over 300,000 Goodreads reviewers, this book delivers a mix of humor, science, and high-stakes action that fans of Weir’s work will love.

Meet Jazz Bashara: A Witty, Flawed, and Unforgettable Heroine

The story follows Jazz Bashara, a smuggler with a sharp tongue and a knack for trouble. Unlike the typical sci-fi protagonist, Jazz is refreshingly imperfect—she’s broke, sarcastic, and always looking for the next big score. Readers praised her as a hilarious and relatable lead, even if her decisions sometimes make you want to yell at the book!

Jazz’s life takes a wild turn when she gets involved in a dangerous heist that could either make her rich or get her killed. The plot is packed with clever twists, high-tech lunar logistics, and laugh-out-loud moments—all while keeping the science believable, a signature of Weir’s writing.

Why Readers Loved It

Fans of Artemis highlighted several standout elements:

• Immersive World-Building: Weir crafts a detailed, believable lunar city, from its economy to its airlocks. You’ll feel like you’re walking (or bouncing) alongside Jazz in Artemis’ low-gravity streets.
• Science Made Fun: Just like in The Martian, Weir explains complex science in a way that’s easy to understand and exciting. Whether it’s welding in a vacuum or lunar economics, you’ll learn something without feeling lectured.
• Fast-Paced Plot: The heist-driven story keeps you turning pages, with just the right mix of humor, danger, and problem-solving.

A Few Criticisms

While most readers enjoyed Artemis, some felt it didn’t quite reach the heights of The Martian. A few noted that Jazz’s voice occasionally felt too similar to Mark Watney’s (the protagonist of The Martian), and the supporting characters weren’t as deeply developed. However, the entertainment value and unique setting more than made up for these minor flaws.

Who Should Read It?

This book is perfect for:

• Fans of sci-fi with humor and heart.
• Readers who love smart, snarky protagonists.
• Anyone curious about realistic near-future space colonization.

At just 305 pages, Artemis is a quick, engaging read that’s great for both teens and adults.

Final Verdict

Artemis is a fun, fast, and fascinating adventure that proves Andy Weir isn’t a one-hit wonder. While it may not surpass The Martian, it’s still a must-read for sci-fi fans who enjoy clever storytelling and a great lead character. If you’re looking for a book that’s equal parts brainy and entertaining, this one’s for you!

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – Highly recommended for a thrilling escape to the Moon!

Ready to dive into Jazz’s lunar escapades? Grab your copy of Artemis on Amazon today!