Gateway

While some small details date it, I still really enjoyed this book. The idea of Gateway and some of the technologies was just interesting enough (along with the book's unusual format). Despite being able to see the ending a little bit before it arrived, I was still left wondering about the details. In a good way. You could have an enjoyable conversation with a friend regarding the protagonist at the end. It was also, despite the fabulous alien technology, more "real" in some ways than a lot of space sci-fi. Zero and low-g environments, for example, instead of ample artificial gravity, along with the gritty economic and social reality were a nice change of pace from many books I've read. Instead of sophisticated, smooth explorers or swashbuckling fearless heroes, Gateway gives us human struggle to "make it" combined with utter fear and awe. The Majesty of the universe, instead of the majesty of humanity. Definitely adding the sequel to my reading list!