Red planet: A colonial boy on Mars (unedited)

Title - Red planet,: A colonial boy on Mars
Author - Robert A. Heinlein
Publish date (original) 1949
Length - (about) 211 pages - paperback

The book has been republished to include the sections that Robert was forced to cut to appease the editor - Alice Dalgliesh at Scribner's Sons. Even at that, the book quickly became a fan favorite.

Ostensibly, this is a Junive book, however, many 'adult' themes underlie the main story.

On the face of it, the story follows a teen living on Mars. As the story continues apace, he 'hero' of the tale, Jim Marlowe uncovers treachery by the "company" that places his family at some risk. As Jim and his friend - plus the likable Willis, a Martian 'bouncer', race to warn the adults - the adventure really kicks into high gear.

Reading this as an adult, I see many of the Libertarian views held by RAH leak out between the lines.

Language, as with all RAH Juvie works is plainly "G" rated - even mild, by today's liberal measurements. This is also a fast read. Well crafted and with a fast paced plot you will quickly see why this is considered a fan favorite.

The science part is just not there - Mars has proven to be a lifeless ball of dust - and the obsession of too many at NASA. It doesn't matter. The story could have been set anywhere... The story is a crackerjack, well worth the entry price.

Recommended for children - age 8 and up, and makes a good book to read to the kiddos looking for a bedtime story. It makes a solid story for adults look for some good reading with parts that should cause you to stop and consider just exactly what the story is saying.
Courage in the face of nearly impossible odds, love of family, and in a twist (well before it was a popular meme) getting screwed over by a heartless Corporation that is only worried over profits. All that is missing are duplicitous politicians.......

Have fun reading.

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Red planet: A colonial boy on Mars (unedited)