Review: To Be Taught, If Fortunate, by Becky Chambers, 2019

To Be Taught, If Fortunate by Becky Chambers, 2019
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

"To Be Taught, If Fortunate" by Becky Chambers follows a four-person crew of astronauts as they navigate the complexities of a mission called the Lawki Program. Tasked with exploring four exoplanets in a distant solar system, the crew faces numerous challenges and unique experiences that test their resilience and adaptability. As the astronauts venture into the unknown, the reader is presented with a thought-provoking look at the ethics of space exploration and the responsibility humans have when encountering new ecosystems.

While the pacing of the novel may be slow for some readers, the rich detail and carefully crafted plot prevent the story from becoming monotonous. Each planet the crew visits presents a new set of challenges and intriguing discoveries, keeping the reader engaged and eager to learn more about these distant worlds.

Despite not finding any of the characters particularly memorable, the author's world-building and depiction of the various planets and ecosystems are commendable. The unique solutions the characters use to address difficulties, such as somaforming and cryosleep, are fascinating and showcase the author's creativity.

Chambers' writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read about the intricate worlds and characters she creates. Although the book may not resonate strongly in terms of themes and messages, it offers a thought-provoking and captivating journey through distant worlds.

In summary, "To Be Taught, If Fortunate" is a slow-paced but thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit, science, and the vast possibilities of space, offering readers an introspective journey through the challenges and wonders of the cosmos.

I rate this novel 2 out of 5 stars.

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*****   SPOILERS  *****

. Here's a play-by-play of the major events in the story:

Introduction of the Crew and Mission:

We are introduced to the four astronauts: Ariadne O'Neill (the narrator), Jack Vo, Elena Quesada-Cruz, and Chikondi Daka. They embark on a mission to study four exoplanets in the Zhenyi system, which is 14 light-years away from Earth.

Somaforming and Cryosleep:

To adapt to the various environments on the exoplanets, the astronauts undergo a process called somaforming, which temporarily alters their biology. They also spend a significant amount of time in cryosleep during the journey to the Zhenyi system.

Arrival at Aecor:

The first exoplanet the crew explores is Aecor, an icy and cold world. They discover an ecosystem below the ice, including a slug-like creature they name "ice slugs."

Exploration of Mirabilis:

The second planet the crew visits is Mirabilis, a hot and humid world. They encounter a diverse range of plant and animal life, including a giant, tentacled creature they call the "bog wraith."

Studying Opera:

The third planet on their journey is Opera, a world with a thick atmosphere and a deep ocean. They find an ecosystem thriving in the ocean's depths, where they encounter bioluminescent creatures and a massive sea creature called the "titan leviathan."

Arrival at Votum:

The fourth and final planet is Votum, a desert-like world. They discover plant life that thrives on minerals and a species of social insects called the "sandkin."

The Morality Question:

As they explore the planets, the crew grapples with the ethical implications of their mission and the potential consequences of their presence on these ecosystems.

Losing Contact with Earth:

The crew loses contact with Earth and discovers that there have been significant political and social changes on their home planet. They are unsure of whether to continue their mission or return home.

Decision Time:

As the story draws to a close, the crew must make a decision about their future. They choose to send a message back to Earth, asking for guidance on whether they should return or continue exploring. The novella ends with Ariadne addressing the people of Earth, emphasizing the importance of learning, growing, and connecting with one another.