If you are looking for something light and entertaining and something enjoyably different from the Star Trek or Star Wars series, try Robert L. Asprin's Phules books for a good start. I recommend that you read them in order. Start with this one, "Phule's Company." The other reviewer answered some plot questions, so I won't repeat any of that here. The purpose of this review is solely to say that this book and its series are an OK place to start looking for an alternative source of light science fiction.
There is nothing too heavy, too outrageious, or too violent in this series. They are somewhat dated (Phule uses something very akin to a laptop computer and wireless communication which was way-out science fiction when the first book was written). But, you can overlook that if you want to just enjoy a fun read (similar to the Doc Savage-type books where an answering machine was an fabulous invention).
Asprin uses some good old-fashioned character conflict to keep the reader interested. Everyone loves an underdog (which Phule is) that makes good. Phule isn't perfect, but he tries hard to do a good job even if it involves some risk and is a likeable character.
I gave the book 4 stars because it is "OK." I reserve five-star ratings for larger, more complex plots, and books that leave me feeling put out to sea, or at least decidedly different.
Go ahead and buy this book, you cannot help but be entertained.