Out There
What promises to be a post-apocalyptic adventure turns out to be a rather dull nature-club field trip. Thin characterization, a depressing ending, and some egregious fatphobia make this one hard to recommend. Worst of all? Not a single raccoon.
The Children Star
On a planet with fascinating alien biology, an orphan colony becomes entangled in a struggle for the world's survival. Slonczewski delivers extraordinary science and thought-provoking ideas, but uneven pacing, shallow relationships, and a rushed final act keep this installment from reaching the heights of its predecessors.