The World Gives Way by Marissa Levien

Book Review

If you love a good space adventure story (like me), this one’s for you! 🚀

This fantastic sci-fi debut, which I included on my list of favorite books of 2021, is like Station Eleven meets Project Hail Mary. I’m honestly shocked it hasn’t received more hype.

The book begins centuries after the destruction of Earth aboard a massive spaceship the size of Switzerland. Given the cost of securing a ticket aboard the only vessel capable of reaching another planet, those who make up the population of the “new world” are the rich and lowly contract workers (who essentially function as indentured servants in exchange for passage to the new planet, where they will receive their freedom upon arrival).

Myrra is a twenty-somethings contract worker serving an exceptionally wealthy and influential family. With only 50 years left until the ship reaches its destination, Myrra’s freedom is on the horizon. However, her world is turned upside-down when her employers turn up dead - leaving behind their baby daughter and secret information about an unrepairable crack in the ship. As catastrophe looms, Myrra sets out to forge her own path with the time she has left.

This book was such a fun ride. I was hooked from the very first chapter and couldn’t put it down. I loved learning about the “new world” aboard the ship and all the unique towns, landscapes and hidden passageways through which the characters venture. The rich scenery, well-developed characters and fast-paced storyline made the book’s 400 pages fly by far too quickly.

If you’re a fan of fantasy, sci-fi, adventure stories or just love a strong female protagonist, I highly recommend this one!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

TW: Suicide, death of a loved one, grief, physical violence, abandonment, end of the world