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The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress

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'The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress' by Robert A. Heinlein is set in the future of 2075 on a lunar penal colony where inmates and their descendants plan a revolution to gain independence from Earth's rule. The story follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate through politics, society, and technology to achieve their goal of creating a free state on the Moon. The plot is filled with action, political philosophy, and social commentary, all woven together with Heinlein's trademark style of writing that explores themes of libertarianism, revolution, and the consequences of challenging authority.

The narrative is centered around the main character, Mannie, a freelance computer technician who discovers a sentient supercomputer named Mike. As the revolution unfolds, the characters engage in discussions about alternative lifestyles, political ideologies, and the nature of humanity. Heinlein's portrayal of human nature and reactions adds depth to the story, making it believable and thought-provoking. combines elements of science fiction, political intrigue, and social commentary to create a compelling and ambitious tale of rebellion and independence on the Moon.

Characters:

The main characters include a computer technician, a sentient AI, and a revolutionary leader, each contributing to the movement for lunar independence.

Writing/Prose:

The prose combines unique linguistic quirks with humor, showcasing the main character's perspective while delving into political and revolutionary themes.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a revolution on the Moon, where inhabitants raise arms against Earth's oppressive rule, aided by a sentient supercomputer.

Setting:

Set in a technologically advanced but politically repressive lunar colony, the story depicts life on the Moon as a society grappling with autonomy and survival.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, starting slow with world-building before quickening during the revolution, though some sections feel bogged down by political exposition.
I SEE IN Lunaya Pravda that Luna City Council has passed on first reading a bill to examine, license, inspect—and tax—public food vendors operating inside municipal pressure. I see also is to be mass ...

Notes:

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress was published in 1966, after being serialized in 1965.
The novel explores themes of revolution and governance, drawing parallels to the American Revolution.
Set in 2075, the story features Earth's Moon as a penal colony inhabited by outcasts and prisoners.
The narrative is told through the voice of Manuel 'Mannie' O'Kelly Davis, who has a unique linguistic style influenced by his Russian background.
The book introduces the term 'TANSTAAFL' (There Ain't No Such Thing as a Free Lunch), highlighting its socio-economic themes.
A self-aware supercomputer named Mike plays a crucial role in the revolution against the Lunar Authority.
Heinlein employs an anarchist philosophy, questioning the necessity and effectiveness of government.
The societal structure on the Moon includes 'line marriages' to address the gender imbalance due to a scarcity of women.
The story reflects libertarian ideals, advocating for minimal governance and maximum individual freedom, yet examines the complications of such a system.
The novel combines hard science fiction with social and political commentary.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings would include themes of sexism, which some readers might find problematic due to outdated portrayals of women.

From The Publisher:

For fans of Artemis-the visionary tour de force from "one of the grand masters of science fiction" (The Wall Street Journal).

Widely acknowledged as one of Robert A. Heinlein's greatest works, The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress rose from the golden age of science fiction to become an undisputed classic-and a touchstone for the philosophy of personal responsibility and political freedom. A revolution on a lunar penal colony-aided by a self-aware supercomputer-provides the framework for a story of a diverse group of men and women grappling with the ever-changing definitions of humanity, technology, and free will-themes that resonate just as strongly today as they did when the novel was first published.

The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress gives readers an extraordinary, thought-provoking glimpse into the mind of Robert A. Heinlein, who, even now, "shows us where the future is" (Tom Clancy).

Ratings (60)

Incredible (12)
Loved It (17)
Liked It (22)
It Was OK (5)
Did Not Like (4)

Reader Stats (112):

Read It (58)
Want To Read (43)
Did Not Finish (2)
Not Interested (9)

About the Author:

Robert Anson Heinlein was born in Missouri in 1907, and was raised there. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1929, but was forced by illness to retire from the Navy in 1934. He settled in California and over…

 
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