In Ascension by Martin MacInnesMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
“In Ascension” by Martin MacInnes is a unique novel that seamlessly blends elements of science fiction, environmentalism, and psychological exploration, offering readers a thought-provoking journey through time, space, and the depths of the human heart.
herself in the enchanting undersea world. Excelling in marine biology, Leigh's passion takes her around the globe to study ancient organisms. Her adventurous spirit leads her to an enigmatic trench in the Atlantic, where what she discovers not only challenges established knowledge about life’s origins but also beckons her into a series of phenomenal events connected by a mysterious pattern.
As MacInnes unveils Leigh’s discovery, readers are introduced to a newly formed space agency in the Mojave Desert, ambitious and shrouded in secrecy. Each discovered phenomenon across the globe seems interconnected, suggesting a cosmic pattern beyond human comprehension. Leigh faces a poignant dilemma: should she stay with her ailing mother and sister, or embark on a cosmic journey to unravel the mysteries of existence?
Through Leigh’s eyes, the novel ingeniously intertwines her personal struggles and desires with her deep connection to life and the environment. MacInnes crafts a character who is straightforward in her desires yet profoundly connected to all life forms, making Leigh's journey deeply relatable and emotionally stirring for readers.
With its meticulous attention to detail, “In Ascension” captivates with its description of various Earth locations, providing readers with a sense of wonder typically reserved for the stars. It’s a tale that prompts readers to re-view their immediate surroundings and ponder the vast universe enveloping them, echoing the awe one might feel under a starlit sky unspoiled by light pollution.
The novel’s shift between settings—space, ocean depths, and terrestrial life—can be disorienting but ultimately serves to blur the lines between reality and imagination effectively. This storytelling approach, combined with the vivid depiction of algae playing a pivotal role at life’s edge, engages readers in a continuous exploration of life, time, and consciousness.
“In Ascension” is characterized by its thought-provoking ambiguity and unpretentious exploration of life's big mysteries. MacInnes' narrative not only offers definitive answers but also instills a perpetual sense of wonder, leaving readers with much to contemplate long after the pages are turned.
If you're seeking a novel that is both a contemplative exploration of life and the universe, and an intimate personal journey, “In Ascension” is a treasure worth revisiting, a compelling read inviting contemplation on life, the environment, and the interconnectedness of all existence.
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