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.
Praise for The Sparrow "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 "Provocative, challenging . . . recalls both Arthur C. Clarke and H. G. Wells, with a dash of Ray Bradbury for good measure."
--The Dallas Morning News " Mary Doria] Russell shows herself to be a skillful storyteller who subtly and expertly builds suspense."
--USA Today
