Book Review: The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers – A Cozy Space Odyssey for Sci-Fi Fans

If you’re expecting explosive space battles, sweeping galactic conflicts, or razor-sharp political intrigue from The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers, you may want to recalibrate your expectations. This isn’t your typical Star Wars-style space opera. Instead, Chambers offers a slower, more introspective journey, one focused less on galactic events and more on the complex web of relationships between her wonderfully diverse crew of characters. For readers who love diving into character-driven stories, this is a gem. But for others expecting high-stakes tension, this might feel like a “long way” indeed.

Chambers crafts a story where the destination is far less important than the journey itself. The Wayfarer, a ship hired to create a wormhole through distant space, is the novel’s stage for exploring the inner lives of the crew. And what a crew it is! The characters are easily the heart and soul of this story. While the cover might suggest Rosemary is the main character, this is very much an ensemble cast, each with their own personality, background, and challenges. Whether it’s the upbeat captain, the quirky alien navigator, or the gruff but endearing engineer, you’ll find someone to root for—or dislike, depending on the moment. Chambers excels at painting these characters with enough complexity to make them feel real, with all the accompanying messiness that comes from living in tight quarters with others.

For Sci-Fi fans who enjoy the intimate, human (and alien) side of space travel, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet delivers in spades. The conflicts are less about external dangers and more about interpersonal relationships. How do different species with their own customs and worldviews coexist? How do they find common ground and understanding? There’s a warmth to the book as it tackles themes of inclusivity, identity, and community. In this way, Chambers offers something refreshingly different from more combat-heavy Sci-Fi books.

That being said, this book isn’t without its critiques. Some readers may find the pacing glacial, especially if they’re used to the heart-pounding speed of more action-oriented Sci-Fi. The book takes its time to revel in the smaller moments, from crew banter to descriptions of alien food and customs, rather than rushing toward the plot’s climax. Some have labeled it as “slice-of-life” Sci-Fi, and that’s apt. If you’re the type of reader who enjoys completing every side quest in a video game before returning to the main storyline, this might be the perfect read for you. However, those who crave direct, precise plotting might feel frustrated. One review humorously compared the book to hanging out with NPCs in a video game for a few hours while major galactic events happen off-screen.

Stylistically, Chambers infuses the novel with a generous helping of humor and warmth. The dialogue often sparkles with wit, and it’s easy to get attached to the characters during their moments of joy, tension, and contemplation. This balance of lightness with more serious moments—like a heartfelt discussion of gender or a brush with death—creates an engaging emotional tapestry. For readers who want their Sci-Fi with more heart than hard science, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet offers a comforting, feel-good story that still manages to probe deeper questions about humanity and our place in the universe.

However, this novel isn’t for everyone. Some might find the slower pace and focus on relationships rather than conflict a bit tedious. One reviewer pointed out that despite the excellent world-building, it sometimes feels like “nothing really happens,” which could turn off readers looking for a more traditional narrative structure. But for those who appreciate books that take their time, those who want to savor every interaction and soak in the details of a well-built universe, this novel offers plenty of rewards.

In short, if you’re looking for action-packed, edge-of-your-seat Sci-Fi, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet might not be your cup of tea. But if you enjoy thoughtful, character-driven stories set against the backdrop of a well-realized universe, this book will be right up your alley. It’s one of those great Sci-Fi books to read when you’re looking to cozy up with something heartwarming, and the world-building is intricate enough to keep even the most curious minds engaged.

For fans of Chamber’s character-first approach, I highly recommend my own series, Edge of Extinction. Like The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet, my series features compelling characters with complex relationships, but it also introduces gripping technology and a fast-paced plot that keeps you hooked until the very end. If you want Sci-Fi that merges deep character development with thrilling action, Edge of Extinction is the perfect follow-up. It’s an easy read that delivers everything you love about the genre—while making sure you can’t wait to turn the next page.