Justin's Notes
Mar. 15, 2026
This story follows Theo, an astrobiologist, raising his "unusual" son Robin after his wife passes away. Theo is tasked with finding the balance between protecting Robin from the world that he is so desperately wanting to understand and letting him experience the realities of it. Specifically, the realities his mother cared so deeply about.
This is a sad story. Powers uses the brokenness of the world to develop and grow Theo and Robin. The more Robin's heart breaks for the condition of the world, the more Theo's heart seems to break for Robin. Yet, we see Theo love his son with everything he has. While this story is incredibly sad, I felt that Powers was writing a story of a father's love for his son and how that triumphs over all the pain in the world. I also loved the way that Powers weaves in a bit of space and science into the story. Theo and Robin are often seen exploring these different worlds in order to help process the life that they live. It was a satisfying and interesting way for Theo and Robin to connect not only with each other but also with the world they live in.
I do think the most important part of reading, aside from enjoyment, is to take into consideration your own beliefs and views of the world and compare them to what you read. So I do think it's important to mention that I do think some of the emotion and pain Theo and Robin feel in this story is intensified in a way I do not feel because of my belief in Christ. So as I read this story, I did have moments where instead of sharing in the despair and disappointment the characters had in the state of the world, I was actually reflecting on the hope I have in Christ that helps mitigate some of those emotions I may have towards society and the world's existence. This is not to discredit those feelings, though, either in the characters or in anyone who is reading this. More just to reflect on how I interact with the pains of the world.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants an emotional story of a father who desperately loves his son. Just be prepared; it is a sad one. I should maybe read something happy here soon.
