Stranger in a Strange Land

Stranger in a Strange Land cover
Good Books rating 4.5
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Technical
  • ID: 7684
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781444710236
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-06-05
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Born on a doomed spaceship and raised by Martians, Valentine Michael Smith is the only survivor of the first manned mission to Mars. When a second expedition discovers him, Smith returns to Earth, where he struggles to understand and adapt to human society. His unique perspective and experiences challenge societal norms and spark controversy. /n/n Upon his return, Smith forms a deep bond with a nurse named Jill Boardman and a writer named Jubal. Together, they fight to protect a fundamental human right: the right to love. The novel explores themes of love, religion, and human connection, making it a thought-provoking and controversial classic that continues to resonate with readers today.

Reviews
Kevin G. Chapman · Kevin G. Chapman · 2023-09-16
great 5.00

This is the reviewer's favorite book of all time, with vibrant and interesting characters that make the pages fly by.

Kevin G. Chapman considers this book his favorite of all time. He is captivated by the vibrant and interesting characters that make the story engaging and hard to put down. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the characters, which add richness to the narrative. Despite its length, the book's compelling characters keep the reader hooked from start to finish.


Quick quotes

    My favorite book of all time.

    The characters in this book are so vibrant and interesting that the pages fly by.

    All 600 pages are engaging and hard to put down.

Gates Notes · Bill Gates · 2022-11-21
brilliant 4.50

This novel is considered the best introduction to grown-up science fiction. It offers a unique perspective on human society and relationships.

Bill Gates highly recommends this book as the perfect entry point into mature science fiction. He appreciates how it challenges conventional norms and explores deep philosophical questions. The novel's unique take on human relationships and society makes it a standout read. Gates also notes that the book's themes are still relevant today, making it a timeless piece.


Quick quotes

    This novel is the best introduction to grown-up science fiction.

    It challenges conventional norms and explores deep philosophical questions.

    The book's themes are still relevant today, making it a timeless piece.

intriguing 4.00

This book is a science fiction take on The Jungle Book and a dark satire on the dangers of organized religion.

The reviewer found this book to be a unique blend of science fiction and dark satire. They particularly enjoyed how it served as a science fiction take on The Jungle Book, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes. The dark satire on the dangers of organized religion adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a thought-provoking read. Overall, the reviewer loved the book for its originality and insightful commentary.


Quick quotes

    It served as a science fiction take on The Jungle Book.

    A dark satire on the dangers of organized religion.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.