2001: A Space Odyssey is a classic science fiction novel written by Arthur C. Clarke first published in 1968. The main story takes place in (you guessed it) 2001 when United States Astronautics Agency found a mysterious monolith, named T.M.A.-1, buried on the surface of the moon near their lunar base. The scientists who've been stupified by the unnatural design of the object become even more confused after finding out that the monolith has been there for three million years. Two years after that discovery, five astronauts accompanied by a capable artificial intelligence embark on a journey to Saturn in a mission that will uncover the truth behind human existence.

This book is unbelievably amazing considering when it was originally written and how every aspect of the story still holds up beautifully well even after over 50 years. That's the one thing I like the most about the story, how realistic it is. The description of the careful procedures above the space ship and the magnificent--and sometimes terrifying--atmosphere conjured by the writer are few of many aspects of the story that suck me into imagining experiencing the space journey myself.

Despite all that, I kinda bummed out by the ending. I thought that I would get an answer at the end of the book. All I got is a tiny bit of an answer and even more questions. I like it but also hate it. Thankfully, all the sequels are already out years before I got my first taste of this series. And I can't wait to finish this wonderful adventure as soon as I can.