The Sparrow
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The Sparrow
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Narrated by:
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David Colacci
About this listen
A visionary work that combines speculative fiction with deep philosophical inquiry, The Sparrow tells the story of a charismatic Jesuit priest and linguist, Emilio Sandoz, who leads a scientific mission entrusted with a profound task: To make first contact with intelligent extraterrestrial life. The mission begins in faith, hope, and beauty, but a series of small misunderstandings brings it to a catastrophic end.
©2008 Mary Doria Russell (P)2008 Brilliance AudioListeners also enjoyed...
Critic reviews
“A startling, engrossing, and moral work of fiction.” (The New York Times Book Review)
“Important novels leave deep cracks in our beliefs, our prejudices, and our blinders. The Sparrow is one of them.” (Entertainment Weekly)
“Powerful...The Sparrow tackles a difficult subject with grace and intelligence.” (San Francisco Chronicle)
What listeners say about The Sparrow
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- EliJ
- 04-06-23
Incredible
Perhaps the only book I would ever label as perfection, and undoubtedly my new favourite book. I truly don't think I've ever been as emotionally impacted by a book as much as this, but I was truly left sobbing at the end; not just because of tragedy within the plot, but because it's such a masterful, emotionally charged book that you can't help but be deeply affected. Even a week after finishing it, I still think about it daily. Truly a masterclass in writing believable, authentic and compelling characters. The narration is utterly fantastic and lives up to the incredible quality of the writing itself. Do yourself a favour and listen to The Sparrow!
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- sean
- 22-03-23
Amazing
Best book I listened to in a while, amazing concept in theology, loved how thought provoking it was.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Anonymous User
- 11-03-24
Astonishing work.
I underestimated it at first, but it's a joy to be proven wrong in that regard. A masterpiece of science fiction, and only one ever to get me simultaneously interesting in theology.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- David
- 20-03-22
Excellent
Very well written and thought provoking novel. Shocking, funny, challenging, spiritual, exciting and beautiful all at the same time. I'd highly recommend this to any person who is prepared to be challenged about what an alternative first encounter could be like.
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1 person found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Anonymous User
- 06-11-23
The Perfect Juxtaposition of Science and Faith
"The Sparrow" is a captivating narrative that delves deep into complex themes of faith, pre-determinism, and endurance, provoking contemplation. It expertly juxtaposes the realms of science and religion, as well as the dichotomies of meaning and chaos, pain and joy. Instead of steering readers toward a specific mindset, the book skillfully presents a diverse array of perspectives, leaving them, perhaps intentionally, no more resolute in their beliefs by the end of the journey. This thought-provoking work is a compelling read or listen, making it a must for enthusiasts of science fiction, theology, or anyone seeking intellectual stimulation.
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- M. Woods
- 11-02-22
Original idea and a good read
I really enjoyed this book - catholic priests in space ha ha - brilliant. Some really good ideas and a great yarn.
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1 person found this helpful
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Mr C Blencowe
- 19-09-23
Enjoyable listen
Took a little time to get going but once it did i really enjoyed the characters and the ending
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Overall5 out of 5 stars
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Performance5 out of 5 stars
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Story5 out of 5 stars
- Amazon Customer
- 24-06-24
Amazing and Beautiful
This is one of the best books I have listened to in my life. Wonderful and warm characters, very clever story which touched my soul. Just going to begin the next instalment.
Heartfelt thanks to author and narrator.
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Overall3 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story2 out of 5 stars
- Cristian Barbu
- 13-02-24
Nothing
Starts off promising, but then devolves into a preposterous mess. A priest and his mates go to space to meet the aliens.
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Overall2 out of 5 stars
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Performance4 out of 5 stars
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Story2 out of 5 stars
- Chris
- 01-09-24
A test of faith
I’m sure some people will love it, but I found it a real slog. I read this for a sci-fi book club, would have been a DNF otherwise. I’d describe it as a book about faith, with some sci-fi elements.
Things I liked:
- Narration.
- Nice characterisation.
Things I didn’t like;
- It’s really slow.
- Very implausible moments.
- Idiotic decisions by supposedly smart, competent characters.
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