the book is a bit preachy in places but it generally does it well with a good writing style, the characters are likeable and the technologies are well described. I would have preferred some nastier baddies and a bit more action in places but this is just me and the story certainly did not detract for the lack of it I just thought it was the only thing that stopped me giving full marks. I'm guessing its probably aimed at a young adult or late teens market, than a die hard sci-fi nut like me, and as such it would be a good way to give such a person an introduction to the genre.