the galaxy and the ground within characters

However, when several strangers get stranded on the planet, even though very little happens in terms of big events, things get decidedly interesting as cultures and opinions clash. This story takes place on the planet Gora which has very little to offer, as it is only a stop between bigger, more important planets. The magic that Chambers creates is its very own kind and whether you call it hopepunk, social science fiction, or something else entirely, it’s something I don’t want to miss from my reading ever again. Come instead for the exploration of differences and similarities between people of different cultures, species, and origins, and then stay for the warmhearted friendships, the obstacles that are overcome, the feeling of belonging somewhere even though you might look and feel different from everyone else. Grounded, with nothing to do but wait, the trio-an exiled artist with an appointment to keep, a cargo runner at a personal crossroads, and a mysterious individual doing her best to help those on the fringes-are compelled to confront where they’ve been, where they might go, and what they are, or could be, to each other.Īh, the balm for the soul that is a Becky Chambers novel! Don’t expect epic battles or life-shattering discoveries. When a freak technological failure halts all traffic to and from Gora, three strangers-all different species with different aims-are thrown together at the Five-Hop. The Five-Hop is run by an enterprising alien and her sometimes helpful child, who work hard to provide a little piece of home to everyone passing through. If deep space is a highway, Gora is just your average truck stop.Īt the Five-Hop One-Stop, long-haul spacers can stretch their legs (if they have legs, that is), and get fuel, transit permits, and assorted supplies. The only thing it has going for it is a chance proximity to more popular worlds, making it a decent stopover for ships traveling between the wormholes that keep the Galactic Commons connected. With no water, no air, and no native life, the planet Gora is unremarkable. Opening line: In the Linkings, the system was listed as Tren.

The galaxy and the ground within characters