I love this book. I love it so much I have bought it 10 times because I keep lending/giving it and needing to replace my own copy. Finally my friend Susie bought me a copy and wrote in it so I would not be tempted to give it away.
The basic premise is that songs are transmitted to earth from an alien planet and the first group to get the money and resources together to investigate are the Jesuits. They send a group of Jesuits and scientists with specific skills to find the source of the music. The trip takes half a lifetime there and back. The story is told in flashback by the only survivor of the mission to return to earth.
This is not a novel for the faint of heart. There are dark themes explored, but that is what makes it so great! You learn to love these characters and grieve for them.
I always give two pieces of advice when I lend this book. They are slightly spoilery, so stop reading if you like to be completely unbiased when you start a book.
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Do not, I repeat DO NOT read the “about the author” for this book until you have completed the book. The author is a scientist and her topic of specialization gives away a major plot point.
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If the story is too dark for you, push on through and then read the sequel Children of God – it will make you feel better.
HourADayWriter 