Book Review: Starship Troopers
One of my Top 10 favorite fiction books of all time. I cannot stand even mentioning the travesty of the same name which was released in theaters other than to say that after that, I became a staunch critic of Paul Verhoeven.
Book: "Starship Troopers"
Author: Robert Heinlein
Publisher: Ace Books, a division of Putnam Berkley Books
Available: In paperback
Background: In 1959, Robert Heinlein wrote this ground-breaking best-seller that challenged most of the views that people held of society and the way it should be run. One of the most controversial books of its time.
Summary: This tale, set in the distant future where various other planets have been colonized and we have found that we are not alone in the universe, chronicles the military career of Johnny Rico, a young man who graduates high school and enlists in the Armed Forces, Mobile Infantry in order to combat a race of intelligent insectoid aliens that the humans are battling with over territory. Full of advanced technology that was far, FAR ahead of his time, a compelling story of a military man's life, and a social commentary that will leave you in chills, this book is a MADMINISTER.COM MUST READ!
Mad Parts:
+ When Johnny Rico comes to grips with the fact that he has found his purpose in the Mobile Infantry and he "goes career."
+ When Johnny's instructor, Mr. Dubois, explains mistakes in our societal parenting of "juvenile delinquents."
+ All the "Bug" battles!
Mad Props:
+ For boldness! Heinlein had an opinion, and he shared it! His views kinda' make sense the way he presents them in a logical, concise manner!
+ For inventive story-telling! This is a CLASSIC in science fiction, for anyone that considers themselves "well read!" Even if you don't enjoy science fiction, you will still get into this book!
+ For NO cussing! That's right! Heinlein never once took Jesus' name in vain, or used a single word that could be remotely construed as a curse word!
+ For NO sex! Again, Heinlein proved that you don't NEED sex to make a best-seller!
Mad Slops:
+ The movie "version" of this book. Whoever had bright idea to sell the movie rights to some one who would allow Paul Verhoeven to direct and Casper Van Dien to act (or at least stand in front of the camera and read lines) needs serious counseling, and if that doesn't work, they should be strung up by the waist band of their BVD's and given the ultimate Atomic wedgie. The movie HAD NOTHING in common with the book other than a few names!
+ The movie "version" of the book.
+ Oh, and did I mention the movie "version" of the book?
Mad Minister's Verdict: This book is a "mad read" and shouldn't be passed up. The thoughts and commentary on our society is frightening and well thought out. Heinlein deserves the accolades he earned for writing this book. Even more commendable is the fact that I can, in good conscience, recommend this novel to other Christians.
Mad Points: 4.5 outta' 5.