Sci-Fi Novel Waypoint Kangaroo is Author Curtis Chen’s Debut

How useful would it be if you had access to a “pocket,” a portal with which you could access your own parallel universe? And how much more useful would that be if you were a space age spy? That’s the basic premise for Waypoint Kangaroo, the debut sci-fi novel from up-and-coming author Curtis C. Chen.

The book has just recently hit shelves, and it’s already garnering strong praise. Kirkus had this to say about the book, “The pace never flags in this high-stakes thriller, the plot never stops twisting and turning, and our hero never loses his sense of humor. Debut novelist Chen has created an engaging character and a rich, believable world. Sci-fi fans will love this fun, high-tech adventure.”

And according to Publishers Weekly, “Chen’s debut keeps the plot twisting as the story builds to a powerful climax, leavening the suspense with Kangaroo’s droll quips. This book is an auspicious start for its author and his wisecracking series.” Sounds like this is a great excuse to avoid the cinemas this July 4th weekend, and spend some time with a good book instead.

Kangaroo Waypoint’s Plot

Kangaroo isn’t your typical spy. Sure, he has extensive agency training, access to bleeding-edge technology, and a ready supply of clever (to him) quips and retorts. But what sets him apart is “the pocket.” It’s a portal that opens into an empty, seemingly infinite, parallel universe, and Kangaroo is the only person in the world who can use it. But he’s pretty sure the agency only keeps him around to exploit his superpower.

After he bungles yet another mission, Kangaroo gets sent away on a mandatory “vacation:” an interplanetary cruise to Mars. While he tries to make the most of his exile, two passengers are found dead, and Kangaroo has to risk blowing his cover. It turns out he isn’t the only spy on the ship–and he’s just starting to unravel a massive conspiracy which threatens the entire Solar System.

Chen, who’s written a variety of short stories and non-fiction tech articles, is connected to a network of noted sci-fi authors. He’s also spent time studying under John Scalzi, James Patrick Kelly, and Ursula K. LeGuin.

Head over to Amazon to pick up a copy of Waypoint Kangaroo. Has anyone had a chance to read Chen’s debut science fiction novel? Is Kangaroo a strong enough character to support a series? Let us know what you think in the comments below.