The Sparrow

by Mary Doria Russell

A really interesting blend of religion and space travel.  This is a unique novel.  I'd first heard of it from customers talking about the actor who has purchased the rights.  I'd like to see this movie...  it wouldn't be able to address quite the philosophical issues the novel can ... as it involves a Jesuit (yes - Jesuit!) inspired expedition to find the source of the 'singing' they'd discovered coming from Alpha Centauri.  "How about four Jesuit priests, a young astronomer, a physician, her engineer husband, and a child prostitute turned computer expert?".  Really a good ride.  The encounter with the planet and species is worth it.