The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams

Evan’s ESS = 9 out of 10

Erin’s ESS = 3 out of 10

Content = PG (Adult Concepts, Mild Violence, Logical Thinking, Frustrating Highway Construction Projects)

"You know," said Arthur, "it's at times like this, when I'm trapped in a Vogon airlock with a man from Betelgeuse, and about to die of asphyxiation in deep space that I really wish I'd listened to what my mother told me when I was young."
"Why, what did she tell you?"
"I don't know, I didn't listen."

Why:  You either love Douglas Adam’s humor or you hate it.  After multiple halfway closed door meetings within the depth of the GL, the verdict is split.  This review was written by those parties in favor of Adam’s and will remain nameless, although we think Erin is completely wrong. 

While we admit science fiction isn’t for everyone, reading The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is one of those necessities for any well rounded Bibliophile.  The fact that this novel is the authority on science fiction humor speaks for itself.  Frankly, if you’re not moved to read about depressed robots, character’s with names like Zaphod Beeblebrox, and space ships powered by infinite probability drives; then finding your next good book should be the least of your worries – you really need to worry about finding a sense of humor.  Additionally, the manual could help prepare you for any unexpected intergalactic travel.

You’ll know within the first few pages whether or not you’ll like this novel.  If the highway construction scene doesn’t yield at least 2.5 LOLs then you’re probably not going to get it.  As much as it pains us to make this statement without a nasty personal attack: this novel probably isn’t right for you.  Just remember that whenever you close a novel before completion a butterfly loses its antenna.

I do have a small recommendation for anyone ambitious enough to tackle the complete series: A Trilogy in Six Parts.  Take breaks and read something else in between.  Part of the reason Douglas Adam’s is so funny is because his humor is so unique.  If you plow right through all six books in one setting, the novelty of his humor may wear off and may even become mildly annoying or slightly childish. 

Editor’s Note:  Anyone else notice the last five words on this review?  BINGO.  (In case you’re wondering which editor is making this note, here’s a hint…it’s the voice of reason).