4 Best Andy Weir Books

The best Andy Weir books, ranked by how many expert sources recommend each one, with notes on space adventures, scientific puzzles, and where to begin.

Our take

Andy Weir turns difficult problems into the engine of a story. His science fiction follows characters who test ideas, improvise solutions, and use humor when circumstances become overwhelming. The technical explanations are part of the entertainment, so these books suit readers who enjoy understanding how a plan works as well as finding out whether it succeeds.

The Martian keeps its focus on survival and ingenuity, while Project Hail Mary opens into a larger scientific mystery. Artemis takes a different route through a lunar city's economy and a criminal scheme. They are separate stories, so there is no required reading order. Cheshire Crossing, illustrated by Sarah Andersen, is a graphic fantasy crossover that offers a much bigger departure in tone and format. Start with The Martian for a focused introduction to Weir's style, or Project Hail Mary if discovery and a broader space adventure appeal more.

4 books · 8 sources · Last updated October 23, 2026

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Reading Andy Weir in order? See all Andy Weir books in order

How to choose from this list

Skip to the full ranking

If you're new to Weir: The Martian → Project Hail Mary
If you want a scientific mystery: Project Hail Mary
If you prefer a heist in a space setting: Artemis
If you want an illustrated fantasy adventure: Cheshire Crossing

The 4 books, ranked

Ranked by how many expert sources name each book. Ties go to the book more people recommend.

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The Martian

The Martian, Book 1

by Andy Weir2014

For readers who enjoy watching a resourceful narrator reason through concrete problems, this offers Weir's most concentrated survival story. The technical detail creates momentum and humor, though readers seeking rich interpersonal drama may find the focus on procedures repetitive.

What it's about

Astronaut Mark Watney is stranded on Mars after a mission accident leaves him presumed dead and completely alone. With limited supplies and no easy way to contact Earth, he uses botany, engineering, and dark humor to improvise a way to stay alive long enough for rescue.

Also recommended by

7 people

Ev Williams recommended this book
Noah Kagan recommended this book
Chris Sacca recommended this book
Matt Ridley recommended this book
Max Levchin recommended this book
Christopher Paolini recommended this book
+1
More recommendations
- Tom Hanks
  "[The author's] masterpiece!" - Tom Hanks

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Project Hail Mary

by Andy Weir2021

For readers wanting Weir's scientific puzzles on a larger, more mysterious stage, this combines discovery with an emotional dimension beyond solitary survival. Its unfolding questions make an inviting entry point, though explanations and reconstructed memories frequently interrupt forward action.

What it's about

Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spacecraft with no memory of who he is or why he is there. As he pieces together his past and the crisis threatening Earth’s sun, he must solve a staggering scientific mystery, and he may not be the only one fighting to survive.

Also recommended by

3 people

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Artemis

by Andy Weir2017

For readers who prefer a heist and a working lunar society to an isolated astronaut, Artemis offers a different use of Weir's technical interests. The setting creates room for social conflict, though the wisecracking narrator's voice can be divisive.

What it's about

On the Moon’s first city, hustler and porter Jazz Bashara takes a high-risk sabotage job that could finally get her out of debt. When the scheme exposes a corporate power grab and organized crime, she has to outthink both the law and lethal rivals to survive.

Also recommended by

1 person

Max Levchin recommended this book

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Cheshire Crossing

by Andy Weir2019

For readers curious about Weir beyond technical space adventures, this graphic novel offers playful fantasy and familiar literary characters. Sarah Andersen's illustrations change the reading experience substantially, though readers expecting the scientific problem solving of his novels may be surprised.

What it's about

This graphic novel brings together older versions of Alice, Dorothy, and Wendy as they are sent to a strange boarding school that studies their ability to travel between worlds. Their rebellious escapes tangle Wonderland, Oz, and Neverland into one adventure full of magic, danger, and dry humor.