Red Thunder

The Thunder and Lightning Series, Book 1

By: John Varley

Narrated by: Eddie Lopez

As Chinese and US spacecraft compete to be the first to land on Mars, a former astronaut, his cousin, and four teens from Florida decide to take matters into their own hands. If they can quickly build their own space-worthy ship using scrap metal, appliances, and power tools, they have a chance to come from behind - thanks to an inventive new power source that can propel them to the Red Planet within three days. No guts, no glory.

©2004 John Varley (P)2021 Blackstone Publishing

A good read / listen

I read this book several years ago and enjoyed it. I also listened to this copy and enjoyed it. I purchased the next two on the series and will listen to them next. John Varley gives good reads and I enjoy listening/ reading them again and again.

A fun, yet unrealistic, listen.

Thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book. The science is way off and not accurate often, but sounds plausible. The stereotyping in the story reads as if the story was written in the 1950’s, not the 2000. Reminds me of Heinlein at times. Bottom line is I recommend it.

One of the best adventures I’ve read

Exciting, moving, fun adventure that while it doesn’t take itself too seriously, has plenty of depth. Friends, family, and community. Great read

Highly Enjoyable

Red Thunder is one of my favorite stories - thought provoking, very topical for today and just plain happy. Eddie Lopez credibly pulled off the Cajun accents and Jubal in particular.

If you loved the book, you will love the Audible performance.

A 10 year favorite

I enjoyed this story for almost 10 years, when I first heard it on audio but I can't remember the first narrator, and Lopez does a great job bringing the book to life