The story of a human raised on Mars by an alien race, Stranger in a Strange Land explores the question of humanity from an innocent, outsider's point of view. The views expressed in this book on love, sexuality, women's issues, self determination, relationships, politics, violence and more, shaped an entire generation. Cults formed around the ideas of this book, leaving Heinlein mystified at the effect his book had on the general public.

When the book was published, in 1961, over 60,000 words were cut by an editor who didn't believe anyone would read so hefty a book. In 1991, Heinlein's wife had the original uncut version published, three years after Heinlein's death. Millions of Heinlein fans are grateful to her for her committment to her husband's work.

I read the cut version in the 70's. It was my introduction to the world of science fiction, and from that moment on, I was proud to identify myself as a science fiction fan. I have heard people who first read the book in the 90's refer to it as "somewhat pretentious and self righteous", and I wonder if they have forgotten that it was written almost 40 years ago, and that times have indeed changed. The things we think, the ways in which we view relationships, our belief in religious leaders, politicians, and traditional medicine - all have significantly changed since the late 50's and early 60's. And many people attribute that change, at least in part, to this catalyst of a book.