Now that I have officially finished the series, I will proceed to shout about it endlessly. You have been warned.
So many people recommended The Illuminae Files by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff to me, but I kept putting off reading it for a few simple reasons:
- I’m stubborn and you can’t tell me what to do, so pffft.
- Aliens and spaceships and future sci-fi? Yuck. No thanks.
- They’re so looooong. Why are they so long?
I’m happy to say that I’m an idiot, and these excuses are lame, so don’t let them stop you from picking up this series!
Because man, I was soooo wrong. It happens. I mean, not often, obviously, but sometimes. So to rectify this, I’m giving you ten reasons why you should read The Illuminae Files if you haven’t yet.
This week’s Top Ten Tuesday is a freebie, and since I’ve been wanting to write this for a while, I figured it’d be the perfect opportunity to sing the praises of one of my new favorite series.
Also, one of my favorite things to do is to shout about books I love, and I won’t even apologize for that. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
1. AIDAN is a beast to be loved and feared.
Never have I loved an AI more. For me, he was easily the highlight of the series, which is saying a lot, considering there were so many things I loved about it. AIDAN is both hero and villain, right and wrong, computer program and something a little bit more. Almost, dare I say, human?
The parts from AIDAN’s perspective are some of my favorite, because they’re written so beautifully, but also almost philosophically. His whole core is logic, and humans are anything but, which poses an interesting dichotomy. He also gets these really catchy repeated phrases like “Am I not merciful” and “Oh, Captain, my captain,” which end up really packing some oomph when they come up.
And the monster is me.
2. The formatting is super unique and is a journey in and of itself.
I started this series on my Kindle. I failed horribly. For me, there was just too much that couldn’t be communicated properly on the Kindle. Half of the journey of the book is the unique formatting, following the squiggly paths of words, turning the book as needed. So much more is communicated through the format than just the words, and it brings a new and different light to the text. I loved discovering new ways to express things that I had never even considered in writing.
3. The banter is top-notch and hilarious.
Who knew teenagers could be so sarcastic and dramatic, right? Go figure. All these characters have an attitude, which of course endears me to them all the more. There’s more to them than just their attitudes, of course, but when they’ve got it, they’ve got it. The banter in this book is some of my favorite of all time, as even in the midst of things, the heroes trade burns and barbs with the villains. And, you know, each other. For good measure. Because sometimes sarcasm is hard to turn off.
4. All these characters are just … I love them so much.
I mean, how can you not? Sarcasm, swearing, a lot of kicking ass and a little taking names. What’s not to love?!
There’s a little bit of everything. Sure, the main characters tend to be the take-charge sort, because of course they are. But you’ve got the son of a crime syndicate family convicted for a crime he didn’t commit. You’ve got regular teenagers thrown into impossible circumstances. You’ve got the captains and personnel on the ship who are trying to be good adults, but adulting is hard, yo. Especially in space where everyone and everything is trying to kill you, including your own AI.
The best thing about this is that even the heroes are villains and the villains … aren’t. Okay, some of them solidly are, and I feel like that’s necessary with as many adversaries as are in this book. But at the end of the day, a lot of them are just people trying to get by and not die themselves.
Interviewer: I’m sorry, you what?
Kady Grant: I am frequently underestimated. I think it’s because I’m short.
Interviewer: They didn’t want it back?
Kady Grant: Probably. They were pretty busy jumping out of the way.
5. The series tackles a surprising amount of deep, hard-hitting issues.
Which maybe I shouldn’t be surprised by this, but going in, I didn’t know what to expect. But there’s all of the following:
✦ Grief/loss
✦ Murder (and is it ever necessary/justified)
✦ Right vs. wrong
✦ Good vs. evil
✦ Soldiers “just following orders”
✦ Genocide
✦ Legality vs. illegality
✦ Innocent vs. guilty
✦ Alien drug dealing
✦ Crime syndicate families
✦ Prejudices and stereotypes
✦ Disability
Don’t get me wrong, the book’s funny, but it walks that fine line between dark humor and the uncomfortable realities of life so well, while not being preachy about it. These are just normal people dealing with extraordinary circumstances.
all the moments we live
and all the miles we walk
never seem to get us anywhere but dead?
But still…
The flare of my thrusters burns like tiny suns
in the sea of starlight all around her.
When the light that kisses the back of her eyes was birthed, her ancestors were not yet born.
How many human lives have ended in the time it took that light to reach her?
How many people have loved only to have lost?
How countless, the hopes that have died?
[But still…]
Not this one.
6. There are so many little Easter eggs hidden in the text that you really need to pay close attention to everything.
I love all the little foreshadowing or different Easter eggs that go into this series. It makes you pay attention. Which I have trouble doing, sure. But it’s still worth it. Everything means something. Trust nothing when reading this. There are several phrases that are repeated through the series in slightly different manners and context, and they’re always a punch right to the feels.
Also … plot points matter! Objects matter! There are several instances of Chekhov’s gun in this. Or, you know, Chekhov’s alien parasites. Whatever. If it’s mentioned, pay attention to it, because it’ll probably come up again later in some big way.
“Maybe…”
“You know you’re going to be flying in space, right…?”
7. Once you pick the book up, it’s a never-ending roller coaster ride to the end.
And what a ride it will be. You’ll laugh and cry and scream and maybe even vomit once or twice, if you have a weak stomach. I had all the emotions while reading this, especially the last book. Talk about mood swings. I cared about these characters and what happened to them, and Kaufman and Kristoff played with my emotions with no regard whatsoever for how it might destroy me. But I forgive them.
Grant, Kady: ok
Grant, Kady: keeping in mind that i am also currently running at 9% capacity, due to lack of sleep, fear of impending death and having to deal with the boneheads here on the bridge, please be gentle with me as you break this news
AIDAN: YOU ARE ALL GOING TO DIE.
8. The books immediately suck you in, and despite their length, you blink twice and for some reason there’s no more words?
I read all three books in under two days each, which for a 600-page book is highly uncommon for me. I just don’t have the time. But for these books? I made time. Much to my husband’s dismay, as clothes were left unwashed and the chores undone for the day. But you know what? Sometimes sacrifices have to be made, okay?
Even if I wanted to put them down, it just wasn’t happening. I had to know what was going to happen next and who would make it and who wouldn’t. When I first picked up the series, I thought of course I’d never be able to get into a book like this, because it just felt too … alien? Too out there? *insert other shameless pun here* Thankfully, that was just not the case.
through silk. He sees that patterns before they form. Knows the end before it begins.
Flowing across lightless black as action transcends thought. He presses his triggers.
And like roses in his hands death blooms.
9. It features the most beautiful and awkward romance ever, and I loved it.
Sure, there are several mini romances between the teen characters because they’re teens. They’re raging balls of hormones thrust into a chaotic life-or-death situation. Of course there’s going to be some hooking up. But my favorite romance involves an AI and a teen, and yes, I realize how awkward and problematic that is. So does the AI, obviously, as his feelings are unrequited and unexpressed.
But watching his personality shift and unfold and the poetic way he describes her and his feelings for her … I mean, it’s enough to make anyone weak in the knees. It’s swoonworthy, even if it’s doomed from the start.
Mason, E, LT 2nd: You deserve more than I could ever give you, Kady.
Mason, E, LT 2nd: But I’ll give you everything I can if you still want me to.
ByteMe: I don’t know how you can say that, but I don’t care. I just want it to be true. You’re all I have, but it will be okay if I still have you.
Mason, E, LT 2nd: you have me.
Mason, E, LT 2nd: until the last star in the galaxy dies.
Mason, E, LT 2nd: you have me.
10. I have never read a more perfect ending for a series.
How I Met Your Mother this is not. I mean, it’s always sad when a series you love ends, but I can’t even be mad, because the ending is just that perfect. It had me riding a whole roller coaster of emotions, but I was more than satisfied when the ride finally came to a stop. There’s so much re-read potential there, and I’m actually super excited for the second read and all the new things I’m sure I’ll discover upon a second look.
Save
Perhaps
This:
That every story needs its monster
and that everybody deserves a second chance.
You’re making me incredibly curious about this book! Based on how much our tastes have matched up in the past, I think I might love it, too. I’m checking my local library now to see if they have it.
My TTT.
I think you would! It’s not a genre I usually read and enjoy, which is why I waited for so long, but don’t let that scare you away. I liked these so much that once I finished, I bought Kaufman and Kristoff’s next book together, Aurora Rising. xD
I agree with all of these. The formatting is amazing and so unique. It is unputdownable. I love AIDAN. one of them most complex characters ever. The characters are so loveable. This series really is ALL THE FEELs and everyone should give it a try.
My TTT https://thereadingrebel.wordpress.com/2019/07/30/top-ten-tuesday-my-top-ten-favorite-bookish-businesses/
Yes, yes, yes! AIDAN is easily one of my new favorite characters, because there’s so much depth, and I love him as much as I’m scared of him. Talk about being conflicted. xD
Ooh, I love this post so much! I definitely agree – the Illiminae Files are freaking amazing, and everyone should try them at least. I picked up Illuminae shortly after it was published, but I did have a lot of concerns, particularly that I don’t really like sci-fi, like you. I have to admit that the final book was a bit of a disappointment for me (the relationship, for one, wasn’t my cup of tea), but I’d still rec the series to others. 🙂
My TTT
I think, of all three books, that relationship was definitely the weakest. I would’ve been fine if, just this once, they had settled on being friends. What I loved about Obsidio, though, was showing the boots-on-the-ground experience, the Devil’s advocate perspective, if you will.
I have to say, though, that I think I ran through more emotions in the last 100 pages of Obsidio than in all the other parts of the books combined. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to scream or cry or laugh or throw things. My poor feels.
I read the first one and LOVED the format (and also really liked Aiden) and YES to the awks as hell romantic relationship (I still love the way that book started lol). But I’ve not read the next two yet? For some reason?? Even though I have the second one?? I feel like I need to reread the first one first to get into the groove of it.
My TT is here!
Ha, it’s one of my favorite beginnings to books! I got about five pages in and was like … oh, yes, these characters are clearly my people. I tried to convince hubby to read it and promised that explosions start by, like, page 10. xD
If it’s been a while since you’ve read the first, I highly recommend you reread it before continuing on! I didn’t realize until partways through the second that there are repeated phrases that are slightly altered through all three, and I was super excited when I realized that, because they were in slightly different contexts as the characters changed.
Did he read it??? Bc … explosions!! Also I do like Auden but my fave AI of all time is Thunderhead 🤷🏻♀️
This sounds exactly my kind of nerdy!! And I sill def try and remember this when I do read them.0
He didn’t! In his defense, I just bought him a Kindle for his birthday, so he’s had his nose in his new toy, and what are paperbacks even anymore?! He’s working through the Stormlight Archive, so I can forgive him, considering.
OMG that’s true! I don’t think I could even choose between them. They’re so different in my mind. AIDAN is power and fear and growth in my mind. Thunderhead is intelligence and feels and needing a massive series of hugs. They’re just so different and deserve to be loved in different ways. xD
Very fair point. The important thing is BOOKS! 😀
They are both great characters, for sure. I will probably re-love AIDAN once I’m rereading it.
100% yes!
SAMMIE!! Oh my gosh you might be my new favorite person for twisting the prompt to this topic!! Especially given that I finished Obsidio TODAY! Oh my gosh.
Yes to all of these things. Yes to the formatting. Yes to AIDAN. Yes to loving the characters, their wit, and their issues. Yes to the easter eggs that not only address plot issues (the example you picked ahhhh), but are also references to our favorite authors, musicals, and movies. And to all of the things that could still be mentioned: namely the secret messages in all the hardbacks covers (do you know about those??), and the fanfreakingtastic full-cast audiobooks. I don’t know if you’ve listened to those yet, but if you haven’t, upon rereads definitely check them out if you’re able.
Love this post!!
Oh, you poor soul. Do you need some chocolate? Ice cream? Chocolate ice cream? I sort of wandered through a fog for about two days after finishing Obsidio, wondering what I was going to do with myself now lol.
Whoa, whoa, back up. There are secret messages in the covers?! I missed it. My copy of Illuminae is paperback, but I read the hardback library copies of the other two and never even noticed. D: I’m disappointed in myself.
I’ve never listened to the audiobook. Which makes me sad. Probably I will, even though audiobooks aren’t my thing, just because I’ve heard so much love for the full cast and such. But I think I’ll probably wait a little while, since I just finished the books, and an audiobook will feel like a nice return to a world I love. 🙂
Haha, right? I do feel like I need to take an evening and not read anything just to come to terms with the series being over, but that would require me to ignore my arc schedule so that’s probably not likely.
Yes all the hardbacks have secret messages hidden in the clear/plastic dust jackets. I can send you some pics if you’d like. =D
And the audiobooks are next level because all the different actors, the sound effects, music, etc. I hope you give them a go when you return to Kerenza.
Ahhh I so feel you on the ARC thing. I just looked at my upcoming reading and had a slight meltdown because so many good upcoming books and so little time. D:
I would love some pics! That’s so neat.
I’ll message you on Twitter! =D
Agh I LOVE this post!!! I recently finished the series also and was trying to find some way to express how amazing it was. Cause it’s amazing! This is great. Agree with every point haha 😆
I’m so glad you loved it! It took me a while to write this post, because words are hard, especially when every time you open your mouth, all that comes out is a fangirl shriek. xD
I’ve been hearing so many great things about this series! I just got myself a copy of book one and am excited to dig into it. The first several chapters have gotten me hooked 🙂
I hope you love it! Just wait until AIDAN arrives. AIDAN is my favorite. :3
I will eagerly await Aidan’s arrival 🙂
This was such a fun read!! It makes me want to go back and give the second book (I couldn’t get into it or stay focused for some reason even though I enjoyed book one!) another chance. AH. I really did enjoy the unique way in which it was format/written. It is such a gorgeous book. AH. YES. I THINK I AM GOING TO HAVE TO GIVE IT ANOTHER GO.
You totally should give it another go! I can understand there being a little hitch, because book two introduces entirely new characters and scenarios, and the start was a little bit slower than Illuminae, where explosions happen on, like, page five. BUT I highly recommend pushing through, because when stuff starts going down, it really picks up. Plus, all the old characters eventually come back into play, too. Each book introduces a new set, but also brings the old ones in by the end. :3
If you like audiobooks, I’ve heard really good things about this audiobook! It’s got a full cast and sound effects, apparently. I haven’t listened on audiobook yet, but I’ve put in a hold for it and it’ll be my first ever full audiobook, I hope.
Uhm wow! First off great use for this weeks TTT. I definitely never thought to use a freebie post in this way 👏🏻👏🏻.
Second, you really have me intrigued about this book. Typically this doesn’t sound like something I would read, but all of the points you’ve made about this series make it sound so good and something that I would like and enjoy reading. I could see this series be something my husband and I could read together. It seems to have many aspects that we both enjoy. I’m definitely going to be telling him about this one!!
Thanks! It’s something I’ve been kicking around for a couple months, so I was excited to have a chance to use it. xD Honestly, I would’ve taken any excuse. This was just convenient.
Oh, if you do audiobooks together, this audiobook apparently has a full cast and sound effects! You lose the uniqueness of the formatting, but it gains something else. I haven’t listened to it yet, so I can’t give my opinions, but everyone’s recommended it so much that I’ve put a hold on it through my library. xD
I hope you enjoy it if you do decide to check it out!
You’re welcome!
That would be a great idea, we both love audiobooks. We will have to check it out and let you know how it was! 😊
Omg how is it that I didn’t see this list until NOW!? I LOVE this list and I LOVE this series and ohmygoodness I now want to re-read it right away because just going through this brought my love for the story, the characters, and the CRAZINESS back to life! I experienced so many surges of emotion. I mean, Kady! Ezra! AIDAN!!! Oh I can’t. This is a fantastic list and such a fun take on this week’s TTT! 😍 (sorry for my little freak out lol)
Ahaha never apologize for a well-deserved fangirl freakout! I just finished the series recently, and making this list made me want to re-read it again, too. xD I actually put a hold on the audiobook, since everyone’s talked so highly of it, so hubby and I are going to give that a go together. 😉
Omg, yes, I’ve heard the audiobook is awesome! I might try the sample to see if it’s up my alley, although I’m pretty bad with listening to audiobooks coz my attention wanders so easily! I hope you both enjoy it together 😃
I have the same problem, but I reeeeally want to make this one work. I listened to the sample, and it’s so interesting and different compared to reading it yourself.
OMG I LOVE THIS POST, SAMMIE. I’ve heard many amazing things about The Illuminae Files, but your list right here completely sucked me in! I’m really contemplating whether I should order just the first book and see how it goes or order the whole series and do myself a favor?! HELP.
Oooh, that’s such a tough one. The really frugal (read: cheap) part of me says go for one book, and if you love it, you can always order the other two (and if you have Amazon Prime, you get either next-day or two-day shipping free, so that’s really not long to wait). The fangirl in me, of course, insists that you buy all three, because how can you not love it?!
I will say, though, there wasn’t a huge, awful cliffhanger at the end of book one. Each book does a really good job of opening a new conflict and wrapping it up in the book, even though the overall conflict is still going, so you won’t be pulling your hair out if you have to wait a little while between books. Just don’t wait too long, because Easter eggs are harder to find. 😉 I hope you love it, when you get a chance to read them!
Oh, the only thing I’d recommend is not reading them on Kindle unless you can zoom! My Kindle doesn’t zoom lol. It was pretty impossible to read, considering.