Sparrow

<p>A visionary work that combines speculative fiction with deep philosophical inquiry, <i>The Sparrow </i>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.</p><p><b>Praise for <i>The Sparrow</i></b></p><p>a A startling, engrossing, and moral work of fiction.a <b>a &quote;<i>The New York Times Book Review</i> </b></p><p>a Important novels leave deep cracks in our beliefs, our prejudices, and our blinders. <i>The Sparrow </i>is one of them.a <b>a &quote;<i>Entertainment Weekly</i></b></p><p>a Powerful . . . <i>The Sparrow </i>tackles a difficult subject with grace and intelligence.a <b>a &quote;<i>San Francisco Chronicle</i></b></p><p>a Provocative, challenging . . . recalls both Arthur C. Clarke and H. G. Wells, with a dash of Ray Bradbury for good measure.a <b>a &quote;<i>The Dallas Morning News</i></b></p><p>a [Mary Doria] Russell shows herself to be a skillful storyteller who subtly and expertly builds suspense.a <b>a &quote;<i>USA Today</i></b></p>