A Closed and Common Orbit audiobook – Wayfarers, Book 2

Saturday morning, my day off. I wrapped myself in a cozy shawl, cupped a freshly brewed latte in my hands, and nestled into the corner of my balcony overlooking the garden. Eager to escape the bustling world of deadlines and city noise, I pressed play on A Closed and Common Orbit by Becky Chambers. Rachel Dulude’s calming voice flowed through my headphones, enveloping me in the story.

I connected immediately with Lovelace’s journey of self-discovery. It resonated with the uncertainty and excitement I felt in my twenties, navigating the world and finding my place in it. Though she was an AI, her emotions mirrored those raw, human feelings of wanting to belong and the tumultuous path to self-acceptance.

Pepper’s mentorship to Lovelace reminded me so much of my own mentors in my early career days – guiding lights who helped shape my perspective and find confidence in my abilities. Their bond transcended the conventional human-machine relationship, reflecting the deep friendships I’ve fostered over the years. As a woman in my thirties, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances of such bonds – how they evolve and adapt, regardless of age, background, or even species.

Listening to this audiobook, I was reminded of the beauty of unexpected friendships, the sort that challenges your beliefs and widens your horizons. It’s not just about space adventures, but it’s about finding oneself amidst the vastness of the universe. As the narrative unfolded, I found myself immersed, drawing parallels with my life’s journey, embracing the lessons from both the challenges and triumphs.

Chambers’ writing, complemented by Dulude’s narration, was the perfect companion for my reflective morning, stirring emotions and memories of personal growth and the friends who’ve been part of that journey. As the sun climbed higher and the world around me woke up, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the stories that bridge the gap between science fiction and the intricate tapestry of human emotions.