Books with Characters Like Mark Watney from 'The Martian'

If you're a fan of Mark Watney's self-deprecating, irreverent, and vulnerable character from The Martian, you're in for a treat! There are several other books featuring protagonists with a similar wit and charm. Whether or not you're a sci-fi enthusiast, these recommendations will captivate you with their engaging and amusing characters.

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

This hilarious and heartwarming book follows Don Tillman, a genetics professor who embarks on a quest to find the perfect wife. Don's socially awkward yet endearing personality shines through in the first-person narrative, making for an enjoyable read.

“You can't love someone until you know them thoroughly. It takes time. True intimacy takes time.” — Graeme Simsion

Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett

While this is a fantasy novel, the tone is witty and irreverent, much like Watney's. The quirky characters and their humorous banter make it an entertaining choice for fans of smart, funny writing.

“God does not play dice with the universe; He plays an ineffable game of His own devising, which might be compared, from the perspective of any of the other players, to being involved in an obscure and complex version of poker in a pitch-dark room, with blank cards, for infinite stakes, with a Dealer who won't tell you the rules and who smiles all the time.” — Terry Pratchett

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

Although this is another sci-fi novel, Wade Watts' first-person perspective and witty, relatable voice create a similar vibe. The book blends nostalgia, adventure, and humor into an engaging read.

“People who live in glass houses should shut the hell up.” — Ernest Cline

Redshirts by John Scalzi

This parody of Star Trek and other sci-fi tropes features a snarky and clever protagonist navigating the absurdity of a space opera universe. Scalzi's writing style is both humorous and engaging, much like Andy Weir's.

“The good news is that the crew of the Intrepid has a much better life span than what you might expect from watching old episodes of 'Star Trek.' The bad news is that it has nothing to do with their intelligence or skillset.” — John Scalzi

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Arthur Dent, the protagonist, is a thoroughly relatable everyman who finds himself in absurd and amusing situations, much like Mark Watney. The book's witty and satirical tone makes it a classic in humorous science fiction.

“In the beginning, the universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely regarded as a bad move.” — Douglas Adams

Finding Your Next Witty Protagonist

These titles should provide you with the smart, sarcastic, and endearing protagonists you enjoyed in The Martian. Whether you're in the mood for romance, comedy, or epic adventures, the characters in these books will keep you entertained and leave you craving for more.

Happy reading!