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Stranger in a Strange Land

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Stranger in a Strange Land

By: Robert A. Heinlein
Narrated by: Martin McDougall
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Epic, entertaining, blasphemous, this is the most influential and controversial of Science Fiction novels. Stranger in a Strange Land caused uproar when it was first published as it savaged conventional religious, sexual and social ideals.

Many years in the future, Valentine Michael Smith's upbringing is exceptional. Orphan child to two astronauts killed in space, he is raised on Mars.

Twenty-five years later he is "rescued" and brought back to Earth.

The initial enthusiasm of the administration in Smith's safe return is soon dampened by the realisation that they cannot control him. Possessed with superhuman skills and a unique philosophy he threatens their society - Smith must be contained.

Then a nurse helps him escape his hospital jail.

Their flight becomes a journey of discovery, enlightenment and wonder. But danger is following fast behind, and there will be no escape from the final confrontation.

'The best of his many books and the best in the genre'
Washington Post on Stranger in a Strange Land

(P)2012 Hodder & Stoughton©1961 Robert A. Heinlein Fantasy Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Science Fiction Space Exploration
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Critic reviews

'The best of his many books and the best in the genre.' Washington Post on Stranger in a Strange Land
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This. Is a classic Heinlein , thought provoking with echoes of modern times. His characterisation of the press is amusingly accurate, even if he could not have guessed the technology at this distance in time. I first read the book some 30+ years ago and the authors cynical views on government ring true especially since Trumps election. He also takes a run at religion and the zealots. With a strong plot it is a thoroughly good story that I heartily recommend.

Stranger in a strange land

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The narration feels dated but the overall story is captivating enough. Filled with philosophy and an odd sort of wisdom. maybe we could all learn something from mike

interesting but a bit pointless

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My first heinlen book and I was not disappointed. Money well spent great story well delivered

Great read

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I’m a little late to this party. I was so familiar with the title I thought I’d already read it. I was wrong.
It’s a lot of book and stands out among any fiction I’ve read to date. Very well thought out and logical. Also demonstrates an excellent grasp of religion and philosophy.
It’s a classic and not just in the SciFi genre. Covers a lot of ground.
As with all classics, it’s a must read for everyone at some point in their life.

It’s quite unique.

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Apart from the brilliant idea of a human “Martian”, this novel makes you feel like a stranger in your own strange land by giving you a new perspective on the world. Although admittedly old-fashioned in its sexual politics - but not sexist or misogynistic, I think - it is full of humour and insight. I’m glad I read it at last.

Fascinating social commentary

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