Mission of Gravity

Very enjoyable. Large caterpillar-like creatures who exist on a planet with extreme gravity are sent on a mission by the humans in orbit to scavenge what is left of a probe crash-landed on their planet that contains important scientific information.

The book is largely told from the point of view of its alien protagonist, Barlennan. It is interesting how we look at everything through his eyes. The humans and Mesklinites are exploring new areas of the panet together at the same time, and various adventures and obstacles are faced. All the time it is hinted that the humans will be getting more than they bargained for when that probe is finally reached. Cool ending.