He was a literal self-absorbed man-child, and worst of all exhibited no apparent growth throughout the entire story. So much so that it was hard to suspend belief in that he was also capable of doing the real thinking required to move the story forward. I know Weir attempted to insert a reason in-story for why such a poor choice would still be sent, but I found it both unconvincing and obvious why the author needed to add it. I think it would have made a more satisfying story to revamp the character so that his position made sense naturally.
In comparison, Rocky was fantastic as a character, the problem faced novel, the solutions enjoyable. That all tips the scales into the 'still well worth the read' territory, but (IMO) it could have been so much more.
In comparison, Rocky was fantastic as a character, the problem faced novel, the solutions enjoyable. That all tips the scales into the 'still well worth the read' territory, but (IMO) it could have been so much more.