The Martian, written by Andy Weir, is a gripping science fiction novel that tells the story of astronaut Mark Watney, who is left stranded on Mars after a mission gone wrong. As Watney faces numerous challenges and fights for survival, the book explores themes of resilience, problem-solving, and the indomitable human spirit. With its realistic portrayal of space travel and scientific accuracy, The Martian is a must-read for older kids who enjoy thrilling and thought-provoking stories set in outer space.