Novels
The Martian is Weir’s debut novel, and it became an instant sensation due to its realistic portrayal of survival in space. The story follows astronaut Mark Watney, who is accidentally left behind on Mars during a mission. Watney, a botanist and engineer, uses his technical skills and ingenuity to survive on the harsh planet. The book is known for its humor, detailed scientific accuracy, and problem-solving approach to survival. It won multiple awards and was adapted into a blockbuster film in 2015, starring Matt Damon as Watney. The novel focuses heavily on practical problem-solving in space and the importance of resilience.
Artemis takes place on the Moon and centers around Jazz Bashara, a smuggler living in the lunar colony of Artemis. Jazz is a sarcastic and resourceful character who becomes embroiled in a criminal conspiracy that could threaten the future of the colony. The novel combines Weir’s trademark scientific accuracy with a fast-paced heist plot, focusing on moonbase life, lunar technology, and the human desire for survival and wealth. While it didn't receive as much critical acclaim as The Martian, it was praised for its character development and witty dialogue.
In Project Hail Mary, Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship, suffering from amnesia, with no memory of who he is or how he got there. He quickly learns that he is on a mission to save Earth from an impending extinction event caused by an alien threat. The novel is similar in tone to The Martian, with a heavy focus on problem-solving, science, and survival. As Grace uncovers more about his mission, he must rely on his skills and knowledge to solve complex scientific problems. It blends space exploration with themes of human ingenuity and interstellar cooperation. The novel has been praised for its depth in scientific explanations and its heartwarming narrative.
Short Stories
A philosophical short story about the nature of existence and reincarnation.
A short story about a future society where people can upload their memories to be stored and analyzed.
A short story by Andy Weir that follows a pilot named Jon, who steals a crucial piece of technology from his spaceship out of frustration. The theft leads to a series of moral and practical consequences, forcing Jon to confront the impact of his actions on the mission and his integrity.
Principles of Uncertainty by Andy Weir is a collection of short stories rather than a single narrative. The book blends Weir's trademark humor, scientific curiosity, and practical problem-solving to explore themes of uncertainty and resilience in various situations. Each story presents a unique scenario, offering insights into how characters navigate life's challenges, often using logic and creativity to find solutions.
The short story follows a scientist who, after conducting an experiment to develop a cure for his terminal illness, discovers an unexpected and dangerous side effect, leading him to confront the consequences of his actions. The story combines Weir's signature blend of science fiction and moral dilemma, exploring themes of ethics, survival, and the unforeseen consequences of scientific experimentation.
The short story follows a character who, in an attempt to outwit a dangerous online adversary, uses his technical skills to wage a digital battle, leading to unexpected consequences that challenge both his ethical boundaries and problem-solving abilities. The story blends humor, technology, and a touch of social commentary, reflecting Weir’s knack for addressing modern challenges with wit and ingenuity.
The short story takes place in a future society where people can upload their consciousness into a virtual world, but one man becomes disillusioned with the monotony and limitations of this new existence, seeking an escape. Weir explores themes of technology, escapism, and human nature, offering a witty yet thought-provoking commentary on the pursuit of fulfillment in a highly digitalized world.
Comics and Graphic Novels
Casey and Andy by Andy Weir is a webcomic that follows the adventures of two nerdy, tech-savvy characters, Casey and Andy, as they navigate absurd and often humorous situations in their everyday lives. Andy Weir wrote and illustrated the comic entirely by himself, weaving his unique style of humor, scientific references, and quirky storytelling into the characters’ interactions and the scenarios they face.
Cheshire Crossing by Andy Weir is a graphic novel that brings together iconic literary characters—Alice from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Wendy from Peter Pan, and Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz—as they team up to confront an interdimensional threat. Co-written by Weir and illustrated by Sarah Andersen, the story blends adventure, fantasy, and humor while offering a fresh, action-packed take on these beloved characters.
Link to Fritz's AP Lit Google Classroom: https://classroom.google.com/c/NzAzNzc0ODM0MzM2
Link to Class of 2025 Author Study Page: https://sites.google.com/coalcityschools.org/ap-lit-author-study-24/home