The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress

By: Robert A. Heinlein

Narrated by: Lloyd James

Length: 14 hrs and 12 mins

Publisher's summary

In what is considered one of Heinlein's most hair-raising, thought-provoking, and outrageous adventures, the master of modern science fiction tells the strange story of an even stranger world. It is 21st-century Luna, a harsh penal colony where a revolt is plotted between a bashful computer and a ragtag collection of maverick humans, a revolt that goes beautifully until the inevitable happens. But that's the problem with the inevitable: it always happens.

Winner of the 1967 Hugo award, this novel marked Heinlein's partial return to his best form. He draws many historical parallels with the War of Independence, and clearly shows his own libertarian political views.

©1965 Robert A. Heinlein (P)1999 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic reviews

• Hugo Award, 1967

"Adrenalizing, mind-stretching, conviction-testing...unmatched by any contemporary!" (Theodore Sturgeon)

Good story

not bad, but the narrators accent takes some getting used to. It's a good story though. I DID learn a few Russian words to boot!

The war between Earth and Moon.

This story is not only plausible and entertaining, it has few scientific holes. The Moon fights for independence from a tyrannical Earth. Not going to get a "spoiler ending" out of me. Read this book.

Libertarianism in space

At first glance, this title may seem like something that would appear only to classical liberals and libertarians because of the fairly heavy political conversations that take place. However, it is a rousig storey with a great cast of characters fighting against a far-off power. I basically just thought of it as "The American Revolution in Space".

The narrator does a great job with the accents of the various characters and refelects how langauge may develop in a lunar colony with such a mixed ethbic heritage. I particularly liked the change over time in one particular character who grows and changes throughout the book.

Stands the test of time

Would you consider the audio edition of The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress to be better than the print version?

I've never read the print edition but the audio version is highly entertaining.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Myc because his conversations with Manny are so interesting.

What does Lloyd James bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The accents and pace.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I wouldn't call it extreme but there were many surprise laughs.

Any additional comments?

Heinlein's story still manages to feel futuristic despite the time and technologies that have come to pass since it was first written. Lots of ideas that still feel relevant until now.

Please listen to this Heinlein work!

He is definitely one of the deans of science fiction(?) and as with so many other of his books he should be listened to closely for current relevance and spendid political and social analysis. Narraration was a bit different but Mr. James was still interesting. Get it and enjoy.

Great book. Still relevant after all these years.

What made the experience of listening to The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress the most enjoyable?

This was a journey back to great old Sci Fi for me. Heinlien is still the best writer and I loved every minute of it.

Who would you have cast as narrator instead of Lloyd James?

James Dale.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but not possible.

Any additional comments?

I'm not sure I would have the narrator do the Russian accent. It was in tune with the book/character; but the voice in my head when reading the book wasn't accented so it took a bit of getting used to.

As good a listen as it was to read

Any additional comments?

I was hesitant to buy this as an audiobook as I haven't read Robert Heinlein for many years but was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I particularly liked the Russian accent for the main character. I "heard" him differently in my head when I read the book but think the audiobook was a much better interpretation. I may just have to listen to some other old favourites from Sci-Fi authors.

A Must-Listen for Sci-Fi Lovers

Not only is the story fantastic, but the narrator is spot-on. He does such a good job I can know what character is speaking from the different voices he uses. Was a pleasure to listen to.

Good classic sci-fi

Any additional comments?

This is slower then most modern books, but the story is excellent and just keeps you listening to see what happens. The computer with a personality was a great element.

A classic!

Wow! Heinlein's works can be called dated, but this one is a masterpiece! The storytelling is wonderful, every character feels distinct and real. This is a story about liberation, and a must-read for all science fiction readers!