Apple BooksBooks like The Martian
For resourceful survival, scientific problems that matter to the plot and wit under pressure.
For dry humor during a failing mission
Apple BooksAll Systems Red: The Murderbot Diaries
Shares dry humor and practical improvisation during a dangerous mission, but an antisocial security unit must protect a group of scientists.
The difference: A short novella with less engineering detail and more combat.
Explore this bookFor survival through adaptation
Apple BooksChildren of Time
Shares survival through technical ingenuity, but follows human refugees and another species adapting across generations instead of one astronaut solving immediate problems.
The difference: Much broader timescales and less sustained humor.
Explore this bookFor tactical problems under pressure
Apple BooksEnder's Game
Shares a protagonist thinking through urgent problems, but turns the challenge into military training games designed to test a gifted child.
The difference: More psychological coercion and less practical engineering.
Explore this bookSources and book details
Collected’s editorial comparisons, informed by the descriptions and reading profiles.
About The Martian