There was only one thing going through my mind during the first several dozen pages of the novel. 
 I'm reading Heinlein. 
 That being said, I really enjoyed it. I like all of Heinlein's works, but this is getting close to his tight juveniles, full of science and explanations and especially that can-do attitude. 
 Of course, this isn't Heinlein, but it is definitely a novel I'll give to my daughter to read once she gets to that certain age where adventure based on using your mind is so much more fascinating than using a sword. I have no problems recommending this novel to anyone. It reads well, it has good humor, and it comes across as a slightly more accessible Kim Stanley Robinson. You know. A Red Mars for young adults. 
 I can't wait to see what else Mr. Weir will publish.