Andy Weir brought you first to Mars where one of the first explorers was accidentally left on the planet (played by Matt Damon in the movie, The Martian.) His latest book of science fiction introduces a microscopic invader that threatens the sun.

Scientists throughout the world recognize the results this invader could inflict if something isn’t done to stop it and they assemble a “dream team” of science experts. Three members of the exclusive team are to travel light years away to identify and resolve the problem before Earth is devastated by a reduction in available sunlight.

The story is a fascinating trip that includes elements of current physics, chemistry, and problem-solving techniques which are enablers of the story and contribute to the believability of the project. Much of the story relies on pure fiction and futuristic capabilities but the physical possibilities allow the reader to embrace the concept and enjoy the ride. Ignore the awkward beginning and plow through the first chapter. Once you get to chapter 3, you’ll have to finish. 

The protagonist, Ryland Grace, is light years away from earth, alone in a vast new system based on the star Tau Ceti. Earth’s survival relies on him to identify a solution and return that information to earth. He knows the implications of failure, but he didn’t volunteer for this suicide mission. Besides, this microscopic life form doesn’t just affect Earth, it affects the entire galaxy. How can he possibly be responsible for saving the Earth and the entire galaxy with no one else to help him? His companions did not survive the trip, but what if….