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Content snapshot
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Violence
Barely any
A brief scene of politically motivated violence; no combat or gore
Language
Barely any
No notable profanity
Sexual Content
Barely any
A brief adult relationship is referenced; nothing described
Substance Use
Barely any
None
Emotional Intensity
Some
Existential themes around humanity's place in the cosmos; religious vs
What this book is about
SETI scientist Ellie Arroway detects a signal from Vega—a mathematical message from an extraterrestrial civilization—and must navigate the political, religious, and scientific firestorm that follows. Carl Sagan's only novel is a meditation on science, faith, and first contact told through meticulous research and human warmth. Content is very mild; the book's power comes entirely from its ideas.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
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