Talk Back

[Terry]

Yes, this is the book that was the basis for the film(s) -- but don't blame the book. Starship Troopers is about duty, honor, loyalty and citizenship, not about Bugs. The ladies are both revered and objectified in the typical Heinlein fashion, but they sure as heck aren't in the shower with the Troopers.

Set in a future (that is chronologically becoming our present) where only persons who have done Federal Service are full citizens permitted to vote, we follow Juan "Johhny" Rico from his impulsive enlistment, through basic training, to indoctrination by combat. Where the films emphasize the action, Heinlein emphasizes the theory -- why join, why fight, why reserve citizenship for those who serve -- and the maturation process by which so many of his generation felt boys became men.

This is a terrific book that was made into a popular, but in no way terrific, film. First published 49 years ago, it is still good entertainment and thoughtful reading.