The book consists largely of excerpts of his journal. Readers will gradually come to admire Charlie's pleasant temperament, in view of his disturbing past, which slowly comes to light. When the tragic conclusion becomes obvious, the story becomes most effective. All of the themes and messages seem to come together at that point. The last few pages are as moving as any book could be, and this book overall will be as simple or complex as the reader chooses.
Technology allows their ship to travel near, though under, light speed.
Before reaching their destination, a major ship component fails, and the ship is unable to slow down. Repairs must be made outside the ship, but the density of interstellar matter is too high for a person to survive. The ship must reach another region of space more favorable. Due to the vast distances, it must increase speed to arrive within the crew's lifetime. The fascinating twist is that with more speed, time inside the ship slows down from time outside.