Member Reviews
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Tor for this ARC!
I have 2 reviews in one here, as both novellas are included in this ombnibus.
A Psalm for the Wild Built:
I normally write longer reviews but this is all I can think to write:
No matter where you are in life, and no matter what genre you enjoy reading, this is the book for you. It will warm your heart and soul in a way I never thought possible - and it does it all in 147 pages. I read this in an evening and it is one I am positive I will sit down to read over and over.
Thank you, Becky Chambers. Thank you.
A Prayer for the Crown Shy:
I again find myself largely at a loss for words.
These books are among the most incredible I’ve ever read, and they touch a part of my heart and soul I didn’t realize needed soothing. The kicker - they do it in less than 300 pages combined.
These books have mental health and non-binary representation, as well as healthy relationships of all kinds - heterosexual, homosexual, polyamorous, etc. the characters all feel very real and very human, even the robot. They suffer and love and exist as real people do, even if the world is drastically different than our current one.
The writing is stunning, the story is heartwarming, and the characters feel like friends. I will certainly read both of these books over and over - and you all should read them too.
I am so excited to see these two volumes being published in one (but also worried--does this mean there aren't any plans for a third?)
Anyway, I don't own physical copies of these books, so this beautiful cover may be the thing that encourages me to finally get them!
I'll admit, my first feelings upon receiving this ARC was disappointment.
I didn't read before requesting, thinking this was a new installment of Chambers' beloved Monk & Robot, not the first two, in omnibus form.
But, really, there was a reason I was disappointed.
They are SO. GOOD.
Like, Do I Want to Give Up Everything and Become a Tea Monk good.
My library doesnt't have these in its collection, so this will be an excellent opportunity to correct that.
The Monk and Robot is a truly unforgettable gem. The blend of a renewed utopian society and the thoughtful reflections of a robot creates a poignant, heartwarming story that lingers long after the last page.
It’s beautifully written, deeply memorable, and perfect for anyone looking for a story full of hope, wonder, and introspection. I can’t recommend it enough, this book will stay with you in the best possible way.
I found this to be such a lovely, calm, and heartfelt book. Chambers writes comfort sci-fi at its finest; I’ll read absolutely anything that she publishes. The only thing is that I wish this were longer, just for the pure pleasure of reading about Dex and Mosscap’s journey together.