As a sci-fi reader from childhood (Hitchhiker’s Guide was my favorite series), I felt the same way about “fantasy” novels. But after reading The Hobbit to my kids, I found that good stories are character driven, and just dressed up in different clothes. The adventures of a reluctant hero being called or thrust into parts unknown is universally enjoyable because it’s what we all experience to some extent. Nobody asked to be here, but here we are so let’s do what we can to make the best of it. I found that The Martian was a really enjoyable quick read for the same reason as The Hobbit. Each chapter was like a mini episode where the characters had to overcome a specific foe or obstacle, then continue moving to the final goal.