A Google user
I really enjoyed this book. In a way, I am surprised that it had not been written before. Let us all be glad that it had not, because it is doubtful that anyone else could have given the topic the treatment that it deserves. Scalzi takes the science fiction television (particularly Star Trek) tropes and thoughtfully skewers them, bringing the reader into the "minor" characters lives and helping us to see the world through them. And what a world it is. A world where death is a certainty not because of random chance, ill luck, superior strategy or forces, or the like ... but because of plot device. And as the characters realize their plight ... well, that is when things get interesting. The book flows along nicely, and Scalzi, always a master of witty banter and tense action, finds his groove, it really shows. But in my opinion, as good as the main book was, it was the codas which really made the read worthwhile. They elevate Redshirts from a light-hearted satire to an examination of the writer's responsibility to the art that they create. If you are looking for a fun and yet thoughtful science fiction comedy adventure, look no further. Scalzi has this in his pocket.
Anthony Giacalone
An excellently written roast of Star Trek with some nice plot twists. I'm a big Sci-Fi fan, and while this story isn't quite as captivating as his other works (Old Man's War in particular), it did speak to my inner trekkie. Definitely add to your reading list of you enjoy the classic Trek series.
Scott Bruntmyer
I enjoyed the light hearted nature of much of the dialogue. It was a nice break from the more heavy handed sci-fi I had been reading. However, the story still has great depth and character development. Finn's lines were some of the best. "Oh, please stop. I'm going to have to frag you." Finn needs to show up in another book.