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Star Trek: The Original Series
The Voyage Home
Vintage TV tie-in paperback
274 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 1, 1986
64 people are currently reading
797 people want to read
About the author
Vonda N. McIntyre
159 books371 followersVonda Neel McIntyre was a U.S. science fiction author. She was one of the first successful graduates of the Clarion Science fiction writers workshop. She attended the workshop in 1970. By 1973 she had won her first Nebula Award, for the novelette "Of Mist, and Grass and Sand." This later became part of the novel Dreamsnake, which won both the Hugo and Nebula Awards. The novelette and novel both concern a female healer in a desolate primitivized venue. McIntyre's debut novel was The Exile Waiting which was published in 1975. Her novel Dreamsnake won the Nebula Award and Hugo Award for best novel in 1978 and her novel The Moon and the Sun won the Nebula in 1997. She has also written a number of Star Trek and Star Wars novels, including Enterprise: The First Adventure and The Entropy Effect. She wrote the novelizations of the films Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
August 25, 2022
Clearly, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) was one of the most entertaining Star Trek movies, as it invited non-fans and regular theater goers to come watch an ecologically cognizant, science fiction movie based on the hugely successful 60s TV show. One can even credit Star Trek's revitalization to this movie and novelization. Here, Star Trek novelist, Vonda N. McIntyre, takes the movie script source, and writes a really good novel. The subtle nuances of transferring a visual medium into a literary medium are navigated well. It should appear obvious that McIntyre is familiar with these personalities and the shadings that make these characters iconic to not just fan-people of the series, but even to the public at-large. She has written several Star Trek novels. One of the reasons that the movie resonates is that the theme of ecological awareness is something that continues to reverberate, even 35 years after the movie and 56 years after the TV series. (I sheepishly remember actually standing on a line with my geek friends to watch the midnight show the day of release.) Loved it then; still think it works very well as a novel now.
December 3, 2024
Can a book be better than the movie it's based on? In this case...yes.
August 26, 2025
Review 47. Star Trek The Original Series Movies #4 The Voyage Home by Vonda McIntyre
Page Count : 274
This is one of my favourite Star Trek film books and films. Like all of the books, this one expands on the story and gives a large amount of added detail into the proceedings of the film.
There are characters in this book which are not introduced in the film and some which have more of a part than they do in the film.
I love how Kirk and the crew try to fit in 1980s San Francisco, but are you can tell still very much out of their league and how people try to get in their way (especially when Chekov speaks to people asking for directions).
The character of Hikaru Sulu also has a bigger part to play in this book as he not only learns to fly a Huey helicopter, but meets one of his relatives who at the time lived in San Francisco.
This book and film have a massive link to the later episodes of season 3 of Star Trek Picard which is one reason why I decided to read these books now as I have recently watched the whole series through (and intend to watch them again soon).
I recommend this book if you have watched Star Trek Picard season 3 or simply enjoy this film as I do.
5*
*****
Page Count : 274
This is one of my favourite Star Trek film books and films. Like all of the books, this one expands on the story and gives a large amount of added detail into the proceedings of the film.
There are characters in this book which are not introduced in the film and some which have more of a part than they do in the film.
I love how Kirk and the crew try to fit in 1980s San Francisco, but are you can tell still very much out of their league and how people try to get in their way (especially when Chekov speaks to people asking for directions).
The character of Hikaru Sulu also has a bigger part to play in this book as he not only learns to fly a Huey helicopter, but meets one of his relatives who at the time lived in San Francisco.
This book and film have a massive link to the later episodes of season 3 of Star Trek Picard which is one reason why I decided to read these books now as I have recently watched the whole series through (and intend to watch them again soon).
I recommend this book if you have watched Star Trek Picard season 3 or simply enjoy this film as I do.
5*
*****
May 3, 2016
Up until The Fellowship of the Ring came along, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home was my favorite and most watched movie. I had a chance to pick up a copy of the novelization of the script and decided to read it.
Although I enjoyed it, it's not nearly as good as the movie. I'm guessing it was based on the script, not the actual final movie, and there are a fair amount of differences. It did explain some things. For example, in the book Scotty knows the guy at the Plexiglass company invented transparent aluminum, so he's not worried about altering the timeline. However, we still didn't get an explanation of how exactly Sulu talked that pilot into loaning him his helicopter!
The thing I liked least about the book is that the space probe is actually intentionally trying to get rid of life on Earth so it can start over. In the movie the space probe has no harmful intentions. Also, poor Chekov doesn't get to say his greatest line, one of the greatest lines in all of Star Trek: "nu-cle-ar wessels!"
In any event, reading the book prompted me to watch this great movie for the 100th (or so) time. Glad I read it, won't be keeping it.
Although I enjoyed it, it's not nearly as good as the movie. I'm guessing it was based on the script, not the actual final movie, and there are a fair amount of differences. It did explain some things. For example, in the book Scotty knows the guy at the Plexiglass company invented transparent aluminum, so he's not worried about altering the timeline. However, we still didn't get an explanation of how exactly Sulu talked that pilot into loaning him his helicopter!
The thing I liked least about the book is that the space probe is actually intentionally trying to get rid of life on Earth so it can start over. In the movie the space probe has no harmful intentions. Also, poor Chekov doesn't get to say his greatest line, one of the greatest lines in all of Star Trek: "nu-cle-ar wessels!"
In any event, reading the book prompted me to watch this great movie for the 100th (or so) time. Glad I read it, won't be keeping it.
October 7, 2020
This book has me thinking so much about the destruction we’re causing to our own planet.... it actually makes me so frustrated I want to cry. Save the whales, why did we stop saying that!!
Anyway, I want to believe in a future where humanity is using our resources for a collective good rather than destruction. This is why I’m obsessed with Star Trek.
The movie is better, but the book is absolutely worth reading for fans. Also, it has me seriously craving a large mushroom pizza rn from the part where Dr Taylor and Kirk go for Italian food.
I love how this installment in the franchise emphasizes environmentalism but in the classic Star Trek manner of being sure to tie it to humanity, too. Because it’s all truly interconnected 😌 Reading these books bolsters my belief in the ultimate good of humanity despite it all.
Anyway, I want to believe in a future where humanity is using our resources for a collective good rather than destruction. This is why I’m obsessed with Star Trek.
The movie is better, but the book is absolutely worth reading for fans. Also, it has me seriously craving a large mushroom pizza rn from the part where Dr Taylor and Kirk go for Italian food.
I love how this installment in the franchise emphasizes environmentalism but in the classic Star Trek manner of being sure to tie it to humanity, too. Because it’s all truly interconnected 😌 Reading these books bolsters my belief in the ultimate good of humanity despite it all.
May 12, 2021
The 3rd of the trilogy, and just as 'Wrath' & 'Search', Vonda McIntyre did a wonderful job on the novelization on this as well. While possibly not as good as Search For Spock novelization, I really enjoy the few little excerpts into the "mind" of the probe. All-in-all a really good novel.
June 18, 2025
Not as good as The Search for Spock novelization, but still enjoyable. It was wonderful to get a different perspective of one of my favourite movies!
October 6, 2013
I listen to the abridged version from 1986, which I got on Audible. I didn't realize it was abridged when I bought it, but that's ok. This was excellently read and acted by George Takei with little vignettes by Leonard Nimoy. Takei even does a wonderful job imitating the accents and vocal cadence of the actors from the series. There are sound effects and music, which enhanced the experience. Since this was, in my opinion one of the weaker Star Trek movies I think I'm glad it was abridged although I was looking forward to a ST novel by Vonda mcIntyre and thought it might be improved by her treatment. Alas, it was too abridged to say for sure.
June 23, 2022
While I do not read many books made from movies, this is taken directly from the movie. I liked the movie and I liked the book. Suffice to say it did not expand on the movie. It is a delightful story, so it was a pleasant read. I must admit where Chekhov said vessel, in my mind I heard Wessel.
September 19, 2025
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home by Vonda N. McIntyre is a novelization of the beloved 1986 film, and it’s an absolute treat for fans of the franchise. McIntyre does an impressive job of expanding on the story, adding depth to the characters and fleshing out details that weren’t fully explored in the movie. If you loved the humor, heart, and environmental message of the film, this book goes even further to enrich it.
The story follows Admiral Kirk and the Enterprise crew as they travel back to 1980s Earth to retrieve humpback whales yes, whales!—in order to save the future from an alien probe wreaking havoc. What makes McIntyre’s novelization stand out is her ability to capture the quirky, lighthearted tone of the film while still weaving in the high stakes and emotional moments. She adds layers to the characters, giving us a deeper look into Spock’s recovery after Star Trek III and Kirk’s leadership as he faces trial for his actions in The Search for Spock.
McIntyre also gives the supporting characters more room to shine. Uhura, Sulu, and Chekov feel more integral to the story, and the book provides additional scenes that fans of the movie will appreciate. Her writing style is smooth and engaging, making it easy to fall back into the world of the Enterprise crew. Plus, her science background (she studied genetics!) adds credibility to the technical and environmental aspects of the story.
If you’re a fan of the original series and the movies, this novelization is a fantastic addition to your collection. It’s not just a retelling it’s a richer, more nuanced version of the story that makes the characters and themes feel even more meaningful. Definitely worth a read!
The story follows Admiral Kirk and the Enterprise crew as they travel back to 1980s Earth to retrieve humpback whales yes, whales!—in order to save the future from an alien probe wreaking havoc. What makes McIntyre’s novelization stand out is her ability to capture the quirky, lighthearted tone of the film while still weaving in the high stakes and emotional moments. She adds layers to the characters, giving us a deeper look into Spock’s recovery after Star Trek III and Kirk’s leadership as he faces trial for his actions in The Search for Spock.
McIntyre also gives the supporting characters more room to shine. Uhura, Sulu, and Chekov feel more integral to the story, and the book provides additional scenes that fans of the movie will appreciate. Her writing style is smooth and engaging, making it easy to fall back into the world of the Enterprise crew. Plus, her science background (she studied genetics!) adds credibility to the technical and environmental aspects of the story.
If you’re a fan of the original series and the movies, this novelization is a fantastic addition to your collection. It’s not just a retelling it’s a richer, more nuanced version of the story that makes the characters and themes feel even more meaningful. Definitely worth a read!
July 22, 2024
Five stars because this is my favorite Star Trek movie, and everything I love about this movie is expanded upon in this book. Seeing the internal monologs of the crew having 0 idea of how to exist in the 80s was priceless. Getting the little bonuses like Spock and Kirk having to explain why they need cash and not a check for the glasses (and that no, they didn't steal them to get quick cash), and the expansion of the garbage men characters from the beginning of the movie. The movie was already so much fun, and the novelization is twice that
January 28, 2020
2.5 stars I feel bad about writing a bad review, but to be fair, it was awful. 1 star because the movie is one of my all time favorites. 1 star because I listened to George Takei and he is amazing and I will listen to ANYTHING he reads. So really this book is a 0.5.
Just watch the movie, because the book is not worth the paper it is printed on. I know that movie adaptations are tough. I feel for the author, but someone should have stopped this book before it went to print.
Just watch the movie, because the book is not worth the paper it is printed on. I know that movie adaptations are tough. I feel for the author, but someone should have stopped this book before it went to print.
August 11, 2021
This particular Star Trek book is special. It was a novel written from the movie, with more details than you see in the film. It's very realistic and gives more drama and dialogue to all the characters. Well written.
October 14, 2023
It’s wonderful that all three films in this trilogy were novelised by the same person. You get a real sense of the journey taken by our crew because McIntyre knows precisely what they’ve gone through and she’s been able to follow the story using the cues and ideas that she set up. And while I’ve enjoyed the very capable writers that have handled the books in this series, it’s a joy that an experienced and skilled writer has been able to put such a superb stamp on the most publicly prominent entries in the sequence.
August 19, 2024
Loved the book. Voyage Home is my favorite Star Trek movie!
January 1, 2022
There was something about the way this book was written that just made it drag. I wish I could explain it more fully, because it's extremely odd I would feel that way when The Voyage Home is my favourite of the Star Trek movies (me and 95% of everyone else on the planet).
But despite the fact that this is a decent novelization in terms of content, the somewhat droning writing style got me checked out of the book at regular intervals and I had a very hard time staying focused on it. It took me two months to read it, which is hard to believe for a simple novelization.
Because it is a novelization, there are obviously some differences from the film, which I don't find a concern at all. I tend to see that as a special peek-behind-the-scenes, as a novelization is often written from a script or includes unrealized concepts from production notes, allowing us to see a fuller view of the final picture. However, there is an exception here, and that's the unfortunate unmasking of the mystery of the probe.
The creators of the film were adamant that the probe's origin and intentions remain a complete mystery. Only the simplest of their motivations - talk to the missing whales - was to be decoded. Nimoy was dead set against anthropomorphizing the probe, believing that it would be an intelligence so vast and so differently designed and evolved from us that not only would it be impossible for us to understand it, but it would be also impossible for it to understand us. The probe should defy description, not have an internal running dialogue.
The multiple sections dedicated to explaining exactly what the probe is doing and why shattered the cosmic mystery of the thing to pieces and dulled out the entire story. I think it was a terrible misstep in this novelization and caused it all to unravel.
That said, I always think novelizations of good films are worth reading, because you do get little bits and pieces of background or motivation that was missed in the film, with certain plot points or conversations becoming more fleshed out. If you liked the movie, this is still worth reading just for that reason.
But despite the fact that this is a decent novelization in terms of content, the somewhat droning writing style got me checked out of the book at regular intervals and I had a very hard time staying focused on it. It took me two months to read it, which is hard to believe for a simple novelization.
Because it is a novelization, there are obviously some differences from the film, which I don't find a concern at all. I tend to see that as a special peek-behind-the-scenes, as a novelization is often written from a script or includes unrealized concepts from production notes, allowing us to see a fuller view of the final picture. However, there is an exception here, and that's the unfortunate unmasking of the mystery of the probe.
The creators of the film were adamant that the probe's origin and intentions remain a complete mystery. Only the simplest of their motivations - talk to the missing whales - was to be decoded. Nimoy was dead set against anthropomorphizing the probe, believing that it would be an intelligence so vast and so differently designed and evolved from us that not only would it be impossible for us to understand it, but it would be also impossible for it to understand us. The probe should defy description, not have an internal running dialogue.
The multiple sections dedicated to explaining exactly what the probe is doing and why shattered the cosmic mystery of the thing to pieces and dulled out the entire story. I think it was a terrible misstep in this novelization and caused it all to unravel.
That said, I always think novelizations of good films are worth reading, because you do get little bits and pieces of background or motivation that was missed in the film, with certain plot points or conversations becoming more fleshed out. If you liked the movie, this is still worth reading just for that reason.
August 9, 2012
*3.5-4 Stars*
*The Gush*
I was not prepared to like this novel. I'm not a particular fan of the movie, it's ok but I felt it went against rules set out in the show and was basically a mess. A fun mess but a mess. Then I started reading the book and I was hooked. You don't even reach the beginning of the movie until 20 pages in because they are wrapping up stuff from the last movie and dealing with the aftermath of the fal-tor-pan (because duh, of course there would be consequences!). It goes on to discuss why McCoy acts slightly off in this movie and why Spock does as well (though one can guess, having it in black and white helps). We get a better understanding of the Probe and why it's attacking the earth. We learn more about Gillian; I might actually come kinda close to buying taking her with them. We get the cut scene of Sulu meeting his great-great-great grandfather and we better understand Chekov's situation on the ship as well as get to see Kirk lay some Vulcan smack down on the doctor! Why was that not in the movie?! We are even given a hint of why Kirk might have been open to the idea of taking Gillian with them, even though I continue to maintain that it was the dumbest thing he ever did (and we are talking about the guy who agreed to Kal-if-fee without knowing what it was!). My favorite parts had to be the looks into Sarek's mind - his reasons, motives, and thoughts during all of these. Most one can infer from Mark Leonard's wonderful performance but it is nice to have it confirmed. All in all, a great book that explains (EXPLAIN MOVIE, EXPLAIN) what it is going on and really helps one's understanding.
*The Rant*
Ahem...TIME TRAVEL WAS ALWAYS SHOWN TO BE NOTHING BUT A BAD IDEA IN THE SERIES! WHAT THE HECK IS THIS? WHY THE HECK DO THEY CONSIDER TAKING A PERSON OUTSIDE OF THEIR TIME AND MESSING UP THE TIMELINE A GOOD IDEA? THE WHOLE PREMISE IS STUPID!
Ahem, now that that's off my chest, let me say I don't mind the whole whale thing. I think it's a great idea, mankind condemning itself unknowingly and going back in an attempt to repopulate (within in reason). However, the crew makes so many amateur mistakes that they don't make in the tv show when they were younger and less experienced? Don't make no sense. They make at least three major changes to the timeline and don't bat an eye. You can't tell me that's not against the Prime Directive, among other things. As a movie, it's enjoyable; as a part of the Star Trek canon, it's a mess.
*Conclusion*
If you've watched the movie, I would read this book. Like the other adaptations of the movies, this novel answers a lot of questions one is left with as well as being a very enjoyable read.
*The Gush*
I was not prepared to like this novel. I'm not a particular fan of the movie, it's ok but I felt it went against rules set out in the show and was basically a mess. A fun mess but a mess. Then I started reading the book and I was hooked. You don't even reach the beginning of the movie until 20 pages in because they are wrapping up stuff from the last movie and dealing with the aftermath of the fal-tor-pan (because duh, of course there would be consequences!). It goes on to discuss why McCoy acts slightly off in this movie and why Spock does as well (though one can guess, having it in black and white helps). We get a better understanding of the Probe and why it's attacking the earth. We learn more about Gillian; I might actually come kinda close to buying taking her with them. We get the cut scene of Sulu meeting his great-great-great grandfather and we better understand Chekov's situation on the ship as well as get to see Kirk lay some Vulcan smack down on the doctor! Why was that not in the movie?! We are even given a hint of why Kirk might have been open to the idea of taking Gillian with them, even though I continue to maintain that it was the dumbest thing he ever did (and we are talking about the guy who agreed to Kal-if-fee without knowing what it was!). My favorite parts had to be the looks into Sarek's mind - his reasons, motives, and thoughts during all of these. Most one can infer from Mark Leonard's wonderful performance but it is nice to have it confirmed. All in all, a great book that explains (EXPLAIN MOVIE, EXPLAIN) what it is going on and really helps one's understanding.
*The Rant*
Ahem...TIME TRAVEL WAS ALWAYS SHOWN TO BE NOTHING BUT A BAD IDEA IN THE SERIES! WHAT THE HECK IS THIS? WHY THE HECK DO THEY CONSIDER TAKING A PERSON OUTSIDE OF THEIR TIME AND MESSING UP THE TIMELINE A GOOD IDEA? THE WHOLE PREMISE IS STUPID!
Ahem, now that that's off my chest, let me say I don't mind the whole whale thing. I think it's a great idea, mankind condemning itself unknowingly and going back in an attempt to repopulate (within in reason). However, the crew makes so many amateur mistakes that they don't make in the tv show when they were younger and less experienced? Don't make no sense. They make at least three major changes to the timeline and don't bat an eye. You can't tell me that's not against the Prime Directive, among other things. As a movie, it's enjoyable; as a part of the Star Trek canon, it's a mess.
*Conclusion*
If you've watched the movie, I would read this book. Like the other adaptations of the movies, this novel answers a lot of questions one is left with as well as being a very enjoyable read.
April 2, 2012
Published in 1986 by Simon & Schuster
Read by Leonard Nimoy and George Takei
Duration: 90 minutes
I picked this audiobook up at a clearance book sale in the "who's going to want this stuff?" section. Mostly, it was serious junk. Educational software that only operates on Apple IIe, VHS copies of movies that I've never heard of starring some guy that was on some TV show that I barely remember and DVDs of some pastor's sermons on any number of topics (still in the plastic!). And, suddenly, I find a memory from my high school and college years - a genuine Star Trek audiobook from 1986!...on audiocassette! And...narrated by George Takei and Leonard Nimoy! So, I scuttle out of there like I've found a gold bar and pop it in car's cassette player - one of the advantages of having a 12 year old car is that it has a multimedia (CD and cassette) stereo system.
Back in the day, audiobooks were almost always abridged, sometimes criminally. This 274 book is abridged to a mere 90 minutes. To be honest, if it weren't for my faded memories of the movie, I don't even know if there is enough plot here to tell the story.
But, I enjoyed it immensely...
Read more at: http://dwdsreviews.blogspot.com/2012/...
Read by Leonard Nimoy and George Takei
Duration: 90 minutes
I picked this audiobook up at a clearance book sale in the "who's going to want this stuff?" section. Mostly, it was serious junk. Educational software that only operates on Apple IIe, VHS copies of movies that I've never heard of starring some guy that was on some TV show that I barely remember and DVDs of some pastor's sermons on any number of topics (still in the plastic!). And, suddenly, I find a memory from my high school and college years - a genuine Star Trek audiobook from 1986!...on audiocassette! And...narrated by George Takei and Leonard Nimoy! So, I scuttle out of there like I've found a gold bar and pop it in car's cassette player - one of the advantages of having a 12 year old car is that it has a multimedia (CD and cassette) stereo system.
Back in the day, audiobooks were almost always abridged, sometimes criminally. This 274 book is abridged to a mere 90 minutes. To be honest, if it weren't for my faded memories of the movie, I don't even know if there is enough plot here to tell the story.
But, I enjoyed it immensely...
Read more at: http://dwdsreviews.blogspot.com/2012/...
May 5, 2017
I happened to find this book at a thrift store for 25 cents, along with three other book-adaptations of the first three (original) Star Trek movies. This particular one happens to by my favorite, and the book did not disappoint! In fact, it gave a lot of helpful background on the travelling probe, answered some lingering questions I had about Saavik, gave further explanation about Spock and McCoy’s recovery from fal-tor-pan, and stayed true to the classic lines from the various San Francisco scenes (although sadly, it did not include Chekov’s line about “nuclear wes-sels”). I’m not sure I’d say this particular book was better than the movie, but it was definitely just as good!
February 28, 2011
The most disappointing of Ms. McIntyre's Star Trek movie novelizations. She's obviously losing interest by this point, and you can see it in her inability to have as much fun with the plot and the character material as the film's actors and director. This was a light, comedic & triumphant movie...but Ms. McIntyre seems determined to downplay everything and not join in with the fun. Boo!
Read
November 4, 2022Some spoilers here.
Looking at the novelizations for Star Treks 2 through 4, this one is definitely my least favorite. That shouldn’t be confused for me saying that I -don’t- like it, however. The difference for me is that with Wrath of Khan and Search For Spock, the novelizations took the plot and expanded it into an even richer story with more depth and emotion to it. With Voyage Home, while there are plot elements that are added into the mix, it often feels like you’re watching a mildly entertaining directors cut with previously deleted scenes. Where you watch it and say, “…yeah I get why they left that out” The book does what it’s supposed to, it tells the story and then it exits, stage right.
A good novelization will elevate the film to some extent by adding internal dialogue as well as scenes that a director just doesn’t have time for. And Star Trek IV does have some great little moments here and there.
Early on in the book, we get some more perspectives on the probe as it approaches Earth and in particular, Christine Chapel and Janice Rand get some good scenes with Sarek. Carol Marcus also has some brief appearances, allowing more dramatic reach of the death of her son and keeping her a presence in these stories. These books make me disappointed that we didn’t get to see more of her and I think she presents a great source of conflict and regret for Kirk as he tries repeatedly to reach out to her after David’s death.
During the time travel sequence, in the movie Kirk sees visions of moments and voices from scenes that happen later on in the movie. I think the idea was in presenting the irony of him witnessing moments that chronologically were in his past but experientially were in his future. I get it on some level but it’s also a bit confusing and I think the book does this better as McIntyre uses the opportunity to throw in some nice callbacks to classic TOS episodes from Kirk’s past.
There’s a line at the end of the book from Gillian that I loved - when she is trying to talk Kirk into taking her with him and of the possibility of a paradox if she stays in her time period. I’ll give the book credit that it did provide a little more context to the decision to take her into the future.
I did appreciate that the book included a scene when Sulu meets an ancestor of his in San Francisco. This was actually filmed for the movie but was cut, something that George Takei has expressed regret over.
Finally - the one point in the book that I absolutely loved was how, in a debate over the decision to go back in time, McCoy challenges Kirk and asks him what the Guardian would say about their actions. I thought that invoking the memory of Edith Keeler provided a new and fascinating perspective on Gillian’s role in the story and how Kirk’s emotions being dragged out over that issue might have affected his actions. I think the book could have done more exploring this connection as this scene was pretty much the end of it but I loved what little I got.
One area I wish the book could have improved on and that would be the decision Kirk makes to tell Gillian the truth about himself. I get that they were under time pressure but this is one aspect that the book could have done justice to, just because we get to see Kirk’s thoughts. Unfortunately, this moment felt just as rushed to me.
And finally, the one area in which the book just doesn’t stand a chance and that’s the reveal of the new Enterprise at the end. The combination of the musical score and the sight of the saucer section as it comes onto screen - there are just some areas where movies rule the day and this is one.
So ultimately - it’s a book that I like and it does add some new details to the story from the movie. But a lot of that added material is a bit on the superficial side and doesn’t so as much to cultivate the horizons of the plot into something larger and better. This was done much more successfully with the previous two books. Not as much here. Ultimately, I think the most strength in the movie lies in the performances of the actors and that humor is hard to translate into a book.
Looking at the novelizations for Star Treks 2 through 4, this one is definitely my least favorite. That shouldn’t be confused for me saying that I -don’t- like it, however. The difference for me is that with Wrath of Khan and Search For Spock, the novelizations took the plot and expanded it into an even richer story with more depth and emotion to it. With Voyage Home, while there are plot elements that are added into the mix, it often feels like you’re watching a mildly entertaining directors cut with previously deleted scenes. Where you watch it and say, “…yeah I get why they left that out” The book does what it’s supposed to, it tells the story and then it exits, stage right.
A good novelization will elevate the film to some extent by adding internal dialogue as well as scenes that a director just doesn’t have time for. And Star Trek IV does have some great little moments here and there.
Early on in the book, we get some more perspectives on the probe as it approaches Earth and in particular, Christine Chapel and Janice Rand get some good scenes with Sarek. Carol Marcus also has some brief appearances, allowing more dramatic reach of the death of her son and keeping her a presence in these stories. These books make me disappointed that we didn’t get to see more of her and I think she presents a great source of conflict and regret for Kirk as he tries repeatedly to reach out to her after David’s death.
During the time travel sequence, in the movie Kirk sees visions of moments and voices from scenes that happen later on in the movie. I think the idea was in presenting the irony of him witnessing moments that chronologically were in his past but experientially were in his future. I get it on some level but it’s also a bit confusing and I think the book does this better as McIntyre uses the opportunity to throw in some nice callbacks to classic TOS episodes from Kirk’s past.
There’s a line at the end of the book from Gillian that I loved - when she is trying to talk Kirk into taking her with him and of the possibility of a paradox if she stays in her time period. I’ll give the book credit that it did provide a little more context to the decision to take her into the future.
I did appreciate that the book included a scene when Sulu meets an ancestor of his in San Francisco. This was actually filmed for the movie but was cut, something that George Takei has expressed regret over.
Finally - the one point in the book that I absolutely loved was how, in a debate over the decision to go back in time, McCoy challenges Kirk and asks him what the Guardian would say about their actions. I thought that invoking the memory of Edith Keeler provided a new and fascinating perspective on Gillian’s role in the story and how Kirk’s emotions being dragged out over that issue might have affected his actions. I think the book could have done more exploring this connection as this scene was pretty much the end of it but I loved what little I got.
One area I wish the book could have improved on and that would be the decision Kirk makes to tell Gillian the truth about himself. I get that they were under time pressure but this is one aspect that the book could have done justice to, just because we get to see Kirk’s thoughts. Unfortunately, this moment felt just as rushed to me.
And finally, the one area in which the book just doesn’t stand a chance and that’s the reveal of the new Enterprise at the end. The combination of the musical score and the sight of the saucer section as it comes onto screen - there are just some areas where movies rule the day and this is one.
So ultimately - it’s a book that I like and it does add some new details to the story from the movie. But a lot of that added material is a bit on the superficial side and doesn’t so as much to cultivate the horizons of the plot into something larger and better. This was done much more successfully with the previous two books. Not as much here. Ultimately, I think the most strength in the movie lies in the performances of the actors and that humor is hard to translate into a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
Out of the original six films, this one is my second favorite, behind The Wrath of Khan. This was the funniest, sharpest, and lighthearted Star Trek film. The plot sounds absurd on paper, but the execution is what makes it work. Leonard Nimoy (Spock) made it work as a movie, and Vonda N. McIntyre made it work as a novel.
To many fans, this is referred to as "the whale story," because the crew of the Enterprise has to go back in time to deal with humpback whales to address the "visitor" orbiting around Earth. Many found it stupid, while others loved it. If you've paid attention to the first paragraph, you should have a sense of how I feel about this.
McIntyre, a known "Trekkie," does an excellent job with this novelization. She captured all the elements that made the film work. I'm not sure if she studied the film or just understood the assignment well. Regardless, it works.
Many novelizations I’ve read either merely replicate the screenplay or add unnecessary content. This one, while it doesn't contribute much to the plot, is still an excellent novelization, mostly because the movie was incredibly funny. As a matter of fact, what did need to be added? In my opinion, the film captured everything perfectly.
Each character gets a time to shine and surprisingly adapts well in the 20th century, despite their customs varying. The novel/movie gives each character enough time to shine, and each in their own habitat and specialty. Mr. Scott impresses Dr. Nichols of Plexicorp with his engineering skills, Sulu shows off his flying skills, Dr. McCoy, "Bones," saves an old woman from kidney dialysis, and Chekov, with 23rd-century tech, while also losing his mind over 20th-century health problems and solutions, Kirk has fun in the world he's in, and Spock, has the mosts laughs. Spock goes in dressed up as a Sensai, knocks out an annoying stereotypical punkass prick on the bus, mind melts with a whale, uses "colorful metaphors," plus sarcasm, and smiles at the end.
I could go on and on with this Star Trek story, but I would sound like a broken record, so I'll wrap this up.
This novelization effectively captures the entirety of the film. It's as if I were reading the movie as a book!
In addition to the novel, there is an audiobook available. Although it is abridged, it features narration by George Takei, known for his role as Sulu, and Leonard Nimoy, who famously portrayed Spock. Takei is an excellent narrator, giving distinct voices to the characters and striving to make them sound authentic. Nimoy voices Spock and also conveys his personal thoughts, providing insight into his feelings and perspectives on various situations in the story. Both Nimoy's and Takei's narrations are exceptional and enhance the listening experience. I was able to play this audiobook in my car, making my rides feel much shorter.
4/4 stars.
To many fans, this is referred to as "the whale story," because the crew of the Enterprise has to go back in time to deal with humpback whales to address the "visitor" orbiting around Earth. Many found it stupid, while others loved it. If you've paid attention to the first paragraph, you should have a sense of how I feel about this.
McIntyre, a known "Trekkie," does an excellent job with this novelization. She captured all the elements that made the film work. I'm not sure if she studied the film or just understood the assignment well. Regardless, it works.
Many novelizations I’ve read either merely replicate the screenplay or add unnecessary content. This one, while it doesn't contribute much to the plot, is still an excellent novelization, mostly because the movie was incredibly funny. As a matter of fact, what did need to be added? In my opinion, the film captured everything perfectly.
Each character gets a time to shine and surprisingly adapts well in the 20th century, despite their customs varying. The novel/movie gives each character enough time to shine, and each in their own habitat and specialty. Mr. Scott impresses Dr. Nichols of Plexicorp with his engineering skills, Sulu shows off his flying skills, Dr. McCoy, "Bones," saves an old woman from kidney dialysis, and Chekov, with 23rd-century tech, while also losing his mind over 20th-century health problems and solutions, Kirk has fun in the world he's in, and Spock, has the mosts laughs. Spock goes in dressed up as a Sensai, knocks out an annoying stereotypical punkass prick on the bus, mind melts with a whale, uses "colorful metaphors," plus sarcasm, and smiles at the end.
I could go on and on with this Star Trek story, but I would sound like a broken record, so I'll wrap this up.
This novelization effectively captures the entirety of the film. It's as if I were reading the movie as a book!
In addition to the novel, there is an audiobook available. Although it is abridged, it features narration by George Takei, known for his role as Sulu, and Leonard Nimoy, who famously portrayed Spock. Takei is an excellent narrator, giving distinct voices to the characters and striving to make them sound authentic. Nimoy voices Spock and also conveys his personal thoughts, providing insight into his feelings and perspectives on various situations in the story. Both Nimoy's and Takei's narrations are exceptional and enhance the listening experience. I was able to play this audiobook in my car, making my rides feel much shorter.
4/4 stars.
January 24, 2025
Well, it's a Star Trek movie novel. How do you judge a book like this? Should you compare it to the movie or on its own merits?
If it's the former, then your task is Herculean - it's Vonda McIntyre versus a thousand people involved in the movie's production, including actors, writers, special effects artists, and an army of Hollywood professionals.
If it's the latter then how do you separate this work from the iconic performances and characters and universe so indelibly marked in the popular consciousness for so long?
The only way to talk about these books is on a very personal level. Okay then. It's 1986. I am walking out of the theater convinced that I have just seen the best Star Trek movie ever made. What made it so good?
Well yeah, the plot, pacing, and the writing were great but there's something more - it is a fun movie. And we sorely needed it after the last three Star Trek movies where characters have been killed, suffered terrible losses, and faced grim truths about the consequences of their past actions.
Not in this one. Kirk is trying and failing to get the knack for swearing. Chekov is asking people in heavily accented Russian how to find nuclear wessels. Spock is using the Vulcan nerve pinch on punk rock kids who won't turn down their music. And Scotty is trying to talk to an Apple II computer. It is Star Trek with its hair down, so to speak. And what a relief it was after so much death and misery. The first three movies were interesting and thoughtful and exciting but not exactly fun. The fourth movie redresses this issue and makes Trek more palatable for the fans and non-fans alike.
Did I get the same feeling with the book? Yes. It hits the same notes as the film and edits out the parts that dragged. Here, McIntyre is picking and choosing what to leave on her cutting room floor and what to put in the book. And she nails all the right parts.
Not to say the book is perfect. She somehow manages to get even more preachy than the film about its central theme of ecological preservation and the plight of the whales.
Doctor Gillian is fleshed out only slightly more than the film, which isn't much. She is a serious scientist whose only goal is to save the whales. Oh and she likes country music. It's a stark contrast to how much ink she spent on fleshing out Saavik in the previous novels, and that's a real shame.
As a side note, the movie has a line in it that refers to disabled people in a derogatory way that McIntyre changes to its more politically correct form. Cheers to her for not going in for the cheap joke and making Star Trek live up to its ideals in the printed form.
If it's the former, then your task is Herculean - it's Vonda McIntyre versus a thousand people involved in the movie's production, including actors, writers, special effects artists, and an army of Hollywood professionals.
If it's the latter then how do you separate this work from the iconic performances and characters and universe so indelibly marked in the popular consciousness for so long?
The only way to talk about these books is on a very personal level. Okay then. It's 1986. I am walking out of the theater convinced that I have just seen the best Star Trek movie ever made. What made it so good?
Well yeah, the plot, pacing, and the writing were great but there's something more - it is a fun movie. And we sorely needed it after the last three Star Trek movies where characters have been killed, suffered terrible losses, and faced grim truths about the consequences of their past actions.
Not in this one. Kirk is trying and failing to get the knack for swearing. Chekov is asking people in heavily accented Russian how to find nuclear wessels. Spock is using the Vulcan nerve pinch on punk rock kids who won't turn down their music. And Scotty is trying to talk to an Apple II computer. It is Star Trek with its hair down, so to speak. And what a relief it was after so much death and misery. The first three movies were interesting and thoughtful and exciting but not exactly fun. The fourth movie redresses this issue and makes Trek more palatable for the fans and non-fans alike.
Did I get the same feeling with the book? Yes. It hits the same notes as the film and edits out the parts that dragged. Here, McIntyre is picking and choosing what to leave on her cutting room floor and what to put in the book. And she nails all the right parts.
Not to say the book is perfect. She somehow manages to get even more preachy than the film about its central theme of ecological preservation and the plight of the whales.
Doctor Gillian is fleshed out only slightly more than the film, which isn't much. She is a serious scientist whose only goal is to save the whales. Oh and she likes country music. It's a stark contrast to how much ink she spent on fleshing out Saavik in the previous novels, and that's a real shame.
As a side note, the movie has a line in it that refers to disabled people in a derogatory way that McIntyre changes to its more politically correct form. Cheers to her for not going in for the cheap joke and making Star Trek live up to its ideals in the printed form.
April 10, 2025
I'm sure I read this one as a wee lad (applies also to the rest of these novelizations), and probably missed a lot. So where we had a couple of good adaptations of bad movies, and a decent adaptation of a great movie, now we finally have an excellent adaptation of a great movie! Hooray!
In the movie the Probe kinda just Shows Up and it's Mysterious and the Enterprise crew figures out what they have to do and they do it. But it's never really explained why it's there. But in a book, yes, you can actually have the Probe be a viewpoint character!
And more than that, you can give whole backstories to throwaway characters on screen as well - one of the garbagemen that saw the ship land in the middle of the park gets fleshed out to a wild degree (he's a former teacher and working on his Great American Novel, or maybe a screenplay), as does a random dude who got approached by a Russian in 1986 asking where the nuclear vessels are (he's a kook who's an FBI informant on his neighbors and is disregarded until Chekov is captured).
All told, the absolute best of these so far.
And, for added hilarity, there were some in-jokes about Kirk remembering his first days on the ship and Scotty thinking he was a tyrant and Sulu embarrassing him in a fencing match... that were also fully fleshed out in Enterprise: The First Adventure (also one of my all-time favorite Trek novels, especially for the TOS crew), published three months prior and written by... Vonda N. McIntyre! So that was a nice little giggle for me, "no WONDER that sounds familiar!"
Next up is Probe, and probably the initial draft (The Music of the Spheres) by that author, who disavowed the book that came out under her name. Wild.
In the movie the Probe kinda just Shows Up and it's Mysterious and the Enterprise crew figures out what they have to do and they do it. But it's never really explained why it's there. But in a book, yes, you can actually have the Probe be a viewpoint character!
And more than that, you can give whole backstories to throwaway characters on screen as well - one of the garbagemen that saw the ship land in the middle of the park gets fleshed out to a wild degree (he's a former teacher and working on his Great American Novel, or maybe a screenplay), as does a random dude who got approached by a Russian in 1986 asking where the nuclear vessels are (he's a kook who's an FBI informant on his neighbors and is disregarded until Chekov is captured).
All told, the absolute best of these so far.
And, for added hilarity, there were some in-jokes about Kirk remembering his first days on the ship and Scotty thinking he was a tyrant and Sulu embarrassing him in a fencing match... that were also fully fleshed out in Enterprise: The First Adventure (also one of my all-time favorite Trek novels, especially for the TOS crew), published three months prior and written by... Vonda N. McIntyre! So that was a nice little giggle for me, "no WONDER that sounds familiar!"
Next up is Probe, and probably the initial draft (The Music of the Spheres) by that author, who disavowed the book that came out under her name. Wild.
August 27, 2019
Ms. Vonda McIntyre has once again outdone it with her brilliant novelization of the fourth Star Trek film.
Kirk and his crew must return to Earth to be court-martialed for their actions during the third film. However, before they can make it, they find that it is being destroyed by a large “probe” which is vaporizing its oceans and drowning the planet with snow. Spock identifies its “call” as whale song. With no whales left on Earth, no one can respond to the probe. Therefore, the crew devises a plan to travel back to 1986 Earth and retrieve a pair of whales, saving Earth in the process.
As she did with her novelization of the third film. McIntyre has once again expanded and built upon an already-great story. The “probe” which was otherwise just a giant box in the movie, has been given a name. Its calls and noises have been translated into text, allowing the reader to better understand its motives. Other subplots which were only given a few seconds of screentime are created, giving more creativity of the story.
Sadly, this was the last Star Trek novel McIntyre wrote. I’ll have to take a look at her others.
Kirk and his crew must return to Earth to be court-martialed for their actions during the third film. However, before they can make it, they find that it is being destroyed by a large “probe” which is vaporizing its oceans and drowning the planet with snow. Spock identifies its “call” as whale song. With no whales left on Earth, no one can respond to the probe. Therefore, the crew devises a plan to travel back to 1986 Earth and retrieve a pair of whales, saving Earth in the process.
As she did with her novelization of the third film. McIntyre has once again expanded and built upon an already-great story. The “probe” which was otherwise just a giant box in the movie, has been given a name. Its calls and noises have been translated into text, allowing the reader to better understand its motives. Other subplots which were only given a few seconds of screentime are created, giving more creativity of the story.
Sadly, this was the last Star Trek novel McIntyre wrote. I’ll have to take a look at her others.
February 25, 2024
Star Trek IV: the Voyage Home novelization by Vonda N. McIntyre
Now, this was a good read! I’m usually turned by novelizations as I don’t see the point in reading them as they’re basically the movie in novel form. I want something new. But I felt like reading something light and positive and this was exactly what I needed.
Vonda did a great job capturing the feel of the movie and adding excellent tidbits such as Sulu meeting his great-great-great grandfather, the FBI agent guy, more of the trash men and other small nice changes here and there. Particularly what the Probe’s intentions were and the convo between it and the whales and them in the end added a lot of context to the history of the Probe. And the fact that whales had an intelligent civilization on Earth before humans was wild. This was a fun read and I plan on reading the other novelizations now. Also I’m curious to know why Vonda didn’t come back to write the last two novelizations as she wrote 2-4.
8/10
Now, this was a good read! I’m usually turned by novelizations as I don’t see the point in reading them as they’re basically the movie in novel form. I want something new. But I felt like reading something light and positive and this was exactly what I needed.
Vonda did a great job capturing the feel of the movie and adding excellent tidbits such as Sulu meeting his great-great-great grandfather, the FBI agent guy, more of the trash men and other small nice changes here and there. Particularly what the Probe’s intentions were and the convo between it and the whales and them in the end added a lot of context to the history of the Probe. And the fact that whales had an intelligent civilization on Earth before humans was wild. This was a fun read and I plan on reading the other novelizations now. Also I’m curious to know why Vonda didn’t come back to write the last two novelizations as she wrote 2-4.
8/10
March 16, 2024
The story is still fun, witty, and emotional. One of the things I really appreciated in this novelization was the continuity callbacks to the original show, with references to Kirk's brother, as well as the Guardian of Time and the woman Kirk fell in love with in the past. Considering that there is not much memory or shared reflection on those old adventures, I found these to be a great addition.
The writing was serviceable, but I did notice that there was some sloppy repetition of words in the same sentence or proximity, which was surprising. Nothing was awful, but it felt like this could have been better edited. I noticed a similar issue in the last book, "Search for Spock."
I do think that the previous one is a better novelization in that it adds so much more to the story, but McIntyre clearly cares about the source material, and I have enjoyed all 3 of her contributions to the movies.
The writing was serviceable, but I did notice that there was some sloppy repetition of words in the same sentence or proximity, which was surprising. Nothing was awful, but it felt like this could have been better edited. I noticed a similar issue in the last book, "Search for Spock."
I do think that the previous one is a better novelization in that it adds so much more to the story, but McIntyre clearly cares about the source material, and I have enjoyed all 3 of her contributions to the movies.
August 19, 2023
Rating between 4 & 4.5
First re read in I don’t know how long.
One of the best movie adaptations I can remember reading. The author took the screenplay, presumably an early version before filming and editing had been completed, and wrote a really entertaining novel.
Scenes were extended, added, characters thoughts and feelings were shown more clearly, and the alien probe was given a background/character that was missing from the film.
I originally saw the film on release and have seen it countless times since at cinemas showing all the movies in a single day and on tv.
I still like it now and do think the novelisation improved on the story.
It still reads as a good final chapter to this trilogy of stories (khan, search, voyage).
Overall a definite recommendation, especially if reading the previous 2 stories as well.
First re read in I don’t know how long.
One of the best movie adaptations I can remember reading. The author took the screenplay, presumably an early version before filming and editing had been completed, and wrote a really entertaining novel.
Scenes were extended, added, characters thoughts and feelings were shown more clearly, and the alien probe was given a background/character that was missing from the film.
I originally saw the film on release and have seen it countless times since at cinemas showing all the movies in a single day and on tv.
I still like it now and do think the novelisation improved on the story.
It still reads as a good final chapter to this trilogy of stories (khan, search, voyage).
Overall a definite recommendation, especially if reading the previous 2 stories as well.
April 17, 2025
I really liked McIntyre's novelization of Star Trek II - she clearly loves the iconic characters and gives them heart and depth surpassing what we see on the TV or movie screen. Star Trek IV, with its charming but goofy time-travel-to-1986 story, was always going to be an uneasy fit for her. But she finesses that by minimizing the wacky fish-out-of-water plot of the movie and focusing on the relationships and uneasy friendships of the main characters.
One of McIntyre's strengths is her scientific background as a biologist, which she uses to beef up some of the more inexplicable science in Star Trek. And she invests this story - about how man's selfish abuse of natural resources is destined to doom humanity - with real pathos. The future she and Star Trek posit, where humans realize their mistake and fix things before it is too late, seems farther away now than it did in 1986.
One of McIntyre's strengths is her scientific background as a biologist, which she uses to beef up some of the more inexplicable science in Star Trek. And she invests this story - about how man's selfish abuse of natural resources is destined to doom humanity - with real pathos. The future she and Star Trek posit, where humans realize their mistake and fix things before it is too late, seems farther away now than it did in 1986.
September 23, 2025
Sulu to Kirk (known here almost exclusively as Jim, which I don't like):
"'We all made our own choices. If you try to stand alone, if you deny our accountability for what we did, where does that leave us? As mindless puppets, following blindly without any sense of our ethics.'"
"He could see Sulu's point. By trying to draw all the blame to himself, Jim had, in a strange way, behaved thoughtlessly and selfishly. 'No. You're right. What we did, none of us could have done alone. Captain Sulu, I won't discount the participation - or the responsibility - of my officers again.'"
A quick read. My insomnia was only moderate, but I still read it in one night.
And I don't recall the movie, so no compare & contrast from me.
"'We all made our own choices. If you try to stand alone, if you deny our accountability for what we did, where does that leave us? As mindless puppets, following blindly without any sense of our ethics.'"
"He could see Sulu's point. By trying to draw all the blame to himself, Jim had, in a strange way, behaved thoughtlessly and selfishly. 'No. You're right. What we did, none of us could have done alone. Captain Sulu, I won't discount the participation - or the responsibility - of my officers again.'"
A quick read. My insomnia was only moderate, but I still read it in one night.
And I don't recall the movie, so no compare & contrast from me.
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