.Virtual Book Club

The Martian

by Andy Weir

From the author's website: 

Six days ago, astronaut Mark Watney became one of the first people to walk on Mars.

Now, he's sure he'll be the first person to die there.

After a dust storm nearly kills him and forces his crew to evacuate while thinking him dead, Mark finds himself stranded and completely alone with no way to even signal Earth that he’s alive—and even if he could get word out, his supplies would be gone long before a rescue could arrive.

Chances are, though, he won't have time to starve to death. The damaged machinery, unforgiving environment, or plain-old "human error" are much more likely to kill him first.

But Mark isn't ready to give up yet. Drawing on his ingenuity, his engineering skills—and a relentless, dogged refusal to quit—he steadfastly confronts one seemingly insurmountable obstacle after the next. Will his resourcefulness be enough to overcome the impossible odds against him?

*** WARNING! SPOILERS AHEAD! ***

Each week, VBC discusses sections of the book together. Below is a collection of weekly discussion questions posed by VBC leadership and members. Be aware that these likely include spoilers, so please do not scroll further if you have not read the book.

Week 1: Chapters 1-11

1. Watney’s decision to write log entries shows that he believes his story is important and is likely to be recovered in the future. If you found Watney’s writings, what would be your first impression of him?
2. How did Watney's level of composure effect your opinion of him? How does his botany or medical engineer background influence his ability to keep composure? Could another type of career professional have fared like Watney? If so, which?
3. How do you “log” your life journey? What do you think people would think about you if they recovered your “log”?
4. Considering Watney’s funny, sarcastic, and humorous nature, do you believe him to be genuine in his lack of animosity towards the crew for leaving him behind? How do you think Watney thinks he will be remembered having been left behind? Does he want to be seen as a hero or a victim?
5. Teddy’s decision not to tell the Ares 3 crew on Hermes that Watney is still alive shows that, as head of NASA, he holds himself accountable for astronauts’ safety and he is willing to prioritize safety over empathy or transparency. Do you agree with his decision? Is it responsible or irresponsible?
6. If the post office ran stamps of living people: who do you think should have one?

Week 2: Chapters 12-20

1. Watney’s frustration with NASA’s bureaucracy shows that contacting NASA comes with both disadvantages and advantages. He says he feels “micromanaged” on Mars. What does this tell us about Watney’s personality?
2. Watney’s self-consciousness about reading and rereading his mother’s letter shows how concerned he is with appearing unemotional and thereby “manly”. What does he fear not appearing "manly" will cost him?
3. On page 155, Watney remembers his mother saying to him “Don’t be such a wuss”.  How did an upbringing such as this prepare or hinder Watney for being stranded on Mars?
4. On page 158, Watney said he had a tantrum. Should Watney be allowed to have a tantrum? When should, if ever, adults be allowed to have a tantrum?
5. Mitch’s case for telling the Ares 3 crew about the Purnell Maneuver is like his case for telling them Watney is alive: they should be given all information that is relevant to them. Teddy’s argument relies on the “greater good” principle wherein keeping five people safe and risking one life is better than risking six lives. Who do you agree with? Why?
6. Teddy’s caution may be the result of the Iris probe’s failed launch. Are you more cautious or risky in your attempts at the unknown? Do you think you will ever change? If so, when?
7. On page 247, Teddy states: “Love of science is universal across all cultures.” Do you agree? Has any recent experience shifted your view on the statement?

Week 3: Chapters 21-end

1. NASA wants to have detailed information on Watney’s movements. Mindy is tasked with collecting this information, not for scientific purposes, but, for appearances to keep the public, the press, Congress and the President happy. How are you effected by the appearance of control or lack thereof? Which do you prefer: keeping appearances or truth?
2. Lewis’s support of Beck and Johanssen relationship shows us that “by-the-book” Lewis is willing to throw out the rulebook entirely. Why do you think Lewis encourages Beck moving into Johanssen room? Is professionalism less important than love?
3. Watney shuts down the Hab (following the original procedure) for the last day of the Ares 3 mission. Without the whirring of the Hab’s machinery, it is eerily quiet. Watney is struck by how silent Mars is. How do you feel in complete silence? Do you prefer background noise or complete silence?
4. From “A Reader’s Guide”: 11. There’s no mention of Mark having a romantic relationship on Earth. Do you think that makes it easier or harder to endure his isolation? How would the story be different if her were in love with someone back home?
5. From “A Conversation with Andy Weir”, are you an advocate for a manned mission to Mars? Why or why not?
6. From “A Conversation with Andy Weir”, Weir said the book he would take to Mars would be “Tunnel in the Sky” by Robert Heinlein. What book and CD would you bring?