Andy Weir
Andy Weir is a New York Times bestselling author and the mind behind the inspiring science fiction novel The Martian. In less than a decade, Weir rose to international fame for his detailed and convincing plotting of an astronaut’s fight for survival on Mars.
Weir was born in 1972 in California to a geologist father and a computer scientist mother, who gave Weir an early introduction to the STEM fields of mathematics, computer programming, and astronomy. The future author grew up as a keen fan of space exploration and of popular science-fiction franchises such as Star Trek, as well as of comic books.
Weir first launched his career working in the software industry in California’s Silicon Valley where he quickly rose in the ranks from programming to managing engineering teams before becoming a full-time author. A self-proclaimed ‘space nerd’, Weir has written extensively on a wide range of topics relating to space exploration, and these articles have appeared in a variety of publications, including Popular Mechanics and the Guardian.
When not writing, Weir continues to explore his interests in technology and astronomy, often taking part in public talks and lectures at universities across the United States. He also works as a technical consultant for films and television to ensure accuracy in their representation of science and space exploration.
In November 2013, Weir published his debut novel The Martian. The fictional tale is based on a sole astronaut stranded on Mars and his struggle to survive until he can be rescued. In the face of extreme adversity, the protagonist employs a combination of wit, innovation and sheer determination to keep himself alive.
The book soon turned into a global success with its intricate plotting, detailed science and unmistakable attention to realism. It topped global bestseller lists, including the Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and New York Times list. It was then adapted into a film of the same name, directed by Ridley Scott and released in October 2015. The movie earned critical acclaim and was nominated for seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, going on to win the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture (Comedy or Musical).
Maintaining a relentless interest in space exploration, Weir’s second novel, Artemis, was released on November 14, 2017. Like The Martian, it tells the story of a lone individual fighting against the odds but this time, the protagonist is a female smuggler on a human-colonized moon. Whereas in The Martian, the main character is using science and engineering to survive, this time the character is relying on craftiness and risky decisions to survive.
Weir’s superb storytelling has received universal acclaim and positioned him as one of the most successful authors of our time. In addition to the success of The Martian and Artemis, he recently announced the release of a new novel by the name of Project Hail Mary in 2021. With an avid following of devoted fans, Weir is recognized for his contagious enthusiasm and passion towards the science-infused stories he brings to life on the page.
