Francoise Sagan

Advantages: A readable, short yet satisfying book
Disadvantages: None

...This novella was written by Francoise Sagan at the age of only 18 and she consequently became a french literary sensation overnight, winning herself both praise for the style and clarity of her writing and criticism for the scandalous behaviour of the 17 year old protagonist, Cecile, who's early discovery of sex, alcohol and all things adult was seen as unacceptable in the eyes of many in 1950s France. I first read the novel in French, its origional language, as part of my A Level French literature studies and I decided that in order to ensure I had understood the book fully, I should read it in English. It was only then that I realised what a beautifully written book it is, superficially simplistic but full of depth. The setting for the book is the French Riviera, where Cecile, her hedonistic, libertine father Raymond and his young... Read review

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Advantages: Rational, scientific, a great explication of de-bunking of modern mythology and pseudo-science
Disadvantages: Has some flaws in the argumentation, natural to Sagan's usual framework

...I was first introduced to Carl Sagan, along with most of the public, through the series 'Cosmos'. Perhaps I can be forgiven for not having heard of him prior to that, given I was twelve years old at the time. It became very apparent in that series, and all subsequent writings, that Sagan was a man of science, to his very core. I have known physicists and scientists of other fields who have embraced denominational and religious tenets, and followed other faith structures (albeit usually with modifications to the theological framework, which in fact puts them in company with their non-scientific intellectual companions). Not so for Sagan. It became clear to me, almost from the beginning his series, that science, the religion of rationality, was his religion. He worshipped the Cosmos, his dogma was the principle of rationality... Read review

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Advantages: Engrossing, Believable
Disadvantages: Moralistic, Limited Characterization

...Well, I'm sure we've all seen the Film Based On The Book featuring the delightful Jodie Foster (mrrrroow), and - first and foremost - I must admit I myself saw the film first. Indeed, it's one of my favourite films of all time, hence my decision to purchase the novel. As with all books later translated into cinematic form, it varies in several minor and one or two major ways from the movie's plot. In short, the novel charts the experiences of our protagonist - Ellie - a radio-astronomer, as she discovers a Message apparently from an alien star. It later transpires this Message contains instructions to build a Machine (Get used to these words being capitalized, Sagan does it in almost every instance, apparently to assure us these are Important Words) designed to transport a human envoy to meet the aliens. The majority of the novel... Read review

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