A Martian Garden: The Story of the First Humans Born on Mars

by Payson Hall

Fire on a space station is a serious problem. Every colonist has a role to play. Unfortunately for Porter, the cast on his leg prevents him from suiting up and assuming his normal emergency duties. Instead he finds himself deployed to help evacuate the nursery, shuttling children to the station's greenhouse. After several trips, he collapses. When he awakens, he discovers thirteen young children depend upon him for everything. He and his charges appear to be the only survivors.

This adventure for adults and young adults explores the cultural implications of trying to survive in a unique and hostile environment while trying to recreate essential tools of civilization that were developed by billions of people over thousands of years.

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2022

About the author

Former US Army Ranger and software developer who changed lanes into Consulting and project management. Husband, father, grandfather and gamer who enjoys math, science, computer games, teaching and problem solving.

Reviews

[George Hahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like The Martian, you'll want to read this. Like Andy Wier's novel, this is heavy into the challenge in surviving a planet nothing like Earth, but is not limited to a single character. Martian Garden is the story of a group of children raised by a single man determined to teach them how to survive, and each dealing with their situation in a different way. A great example of "hard" science fiction.

[Nicolle Goldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this in January 2023--I hope it's never too late to leave a review :) I LOVED A Martian Garden for its blend of science and story, rather like The Martian or Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir where the protagonist has to use his brain to find solutions to problems. I can't wait for the next book in the series. What are all those kids going to do?

[Payson Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have to admit a bias, because I'm the author, but I enjoyed reading this book each of the 100 or so times that I had to while I was writing it. Some parts still make me laugh and some parts still choke me up.

It was fun to write and I hope you find it an interesting and enjoyable read.