Rent The Sparrow

A friend recommended this book. I generally like historical fiction, but I am open to other genres. Russell's writing is so different--the character development was deep, the conversations were intelligent, and there was plenty of action. There were some disturbing events, but when you read the next book, Children of God, you understand the dangers of attempting contact with other worlds. I liked that the science fiction part took a back seat while the interaction of people/politics/religion were in the forefront. I've read all Russell' books now and cannot wait for more.

I found this to be a fascinating read, disturbing on some levels but definitely illuminating. The characters are all too human, and the depiction of an Earth in the not-too-distant future was entirely believable. I didn't really see it as science fiction, more as a character study and a morality play. Themes of redemption, one's choices, and the interaction of very different characters can teach a lot.

I read this for a book discussion, and was very glad i did. I would never have picked this up otherwise, since I almost never read Science Fiction. This was very well written, and surprising in its themes and plot. The questions it poses about religion and our views of what is moral, and who is human are well worth contemplating and discussing. I was very pleasantly surprised , and have recommended this book often.

I would only include this book in a fiction category:it was mostly drama not science fiction. It was one of the worst books I have ever read. It was a total waste of time and it was depressing. The plot or central theme was disgusting, disjunctive and made very little sense. The characters were not believable or developed in any way. There were repeated themes that were offensive. I do not know how this book ever got published,as is.