The Engines of God – Jack McDevitt

Title: The engines of God

Author: Jack McDevitt

Genre: Science Fiction

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect as I opened this book. I had read somewhere that this was either a bestseller or award-winner at some time – but now I have no idea where I read that. I did know that I have greatly enjoyed some of McDevitt’s other books.

Unlike many other sci-fi writers, McDevitt doesn’t rely on great space armadas and battles with amazing weapons, soldiers led by incredibly talented and inspiring leaders, or some sort of political, social or military conflict. He utilizes the most basic of literary genres in the most imaginative way – the mystery.

The heart of this mystery is a an alien race that is long gone, who have left incredible (and mysterious) ‘monuments’ which mankind has discovered as he has begun to step out and explore the universe. A band of archeologists has uncovered some things  which might be able to finally illuminate many of the mysteries of this long gone race.

For a book devoid of characters which might be associated with the stereotypical ‘action figures’ of science fiction, one might wonder how he manages to keep the pace moving. But McDevitt deftly weaves a very intriguing story, which kept me turning page after page – several nights keeping me up later than I really should have been…

Overall, a very well-written, well-paced book. McDevitt also writes very ‘cleanly’, so the book would also be appropriate for younger readers. Definitely recommend it!

Worldview: Secular

Age Recommendation: This would definitely be okay for high school age children, and at least older middle school age children. Though there are allusions to sexual situations, none are detailed or explicit, and the violence is rare and not extremely descriptive at that.