"Children of God" is the sequel to Mary Doria Russell's "The Sparrow." However, like too many sequels, it just isn't as good-- I'll give it a weak +.
While "The Sparrow" had an innovative plot line and brought up a lot of interesting philosophical ideas that aren't often encountered in sci fi-type books, "Children of God" is much more "standard." That is, you've read the plot in other books, just done with different characters in a different setting.
The story of Emilio Sandoz continues in this book, as well as the evolving tale of the planet Rakhat. Russell gives in to the temptation to focus on the plot now that (most of) the characters and setting are familiar to the reader. In my opinion, the book suffers as a result because Russell's talent lies in slowly, delicately unfolding the details of the story. The pace of "Children of God" is simply too fast.
Also, it seems to tackle less weighty ideas than "The Sparrow." In particular, Russell brings in an unecessary romantic affair that resembles the ones routinely concocted by Hollywood as a near requirement for a standard movie.
And finally, the books pushed a few of my religious buttons. Your tolerance may be different.
It wasn't all a disappointment, of course. I got caught up in the plot and found myself wanting to read just one more chapter before bed. But it was just another book with an intriguing plot. Not as special as "The Sparrow."
You won't go wrong reading this book if you enjoyed "The Sparrow"-- it's high-quality sci fi, to be sure-- but it doesn't quite live up to its predecessor.
Copyright © Kim Allen 2001
