Robert A. Heinlein

Double Star

Kelsey Lynn

(3/63) In my Hugo Read-Through
       Double Star by Robert Heinlein won the third Hugo Award for novel in 1956. It’s my third stop on my read-through and the first time I’ve read a Heinlein all the way through.

        Double Star was a very enjoyable read, I wouldn't agree with many reviews that state "it's nonstop fun" or "constant action" because it isn't constant action, this is a very political and somewhat philosophical book. The story revolves around a narcissistic, Martian-racist actor named Lorenzo, who's only real goal and purpose in life is to act and be good at it, and have an applause at the end. Lorenzo ends up (kind of) tricked into playing a double (an impersonation job, something he believes to be ridiculously beneath him) of a prominent Politician on Mars. 

        A somewhat humorous concept from the onset, martian-racist man having to play the biggest advocate for equal Martian rights, a story that I feel Vonnegut could have had a field day with. But rather than taking it the snarky direction I thought it would go, it took a very serious, very philosophical route. As Lorenzo plays this politician Mr. Bonforte, he learns everything about him, how he talks, how he walks, all of his ticks, he learns everything he stands for and how people think of him. As the role takes longer than expected Lorenzo becomes to respect and even idolize the man he is playing. Opening his eyes to the importance of Politics, and of having something you believe in so much your willing to do anything for it. It causes him to question how he's been living his life, and ultimately what it is he believes in, stands for, and would fight for.

         Other than a beautifully written transition of our main character, Heinlein also develops the beliefs of the Martians, as well as the politics of 2100 just enough to be believable and also relate-able. The points he touches on would apply to any government and politician and person, of any year and time. He stresses the importance of voting, with a great line explaining that when you pick sides, you may sometimes lose, but if you don't pick sides you will always lose. 
 I'm a very non-political person, I've never voted, and I tend to stay out of it. However reading this book, just like Lorenzo, I began to question myself. This book does a great job of very simply explaining the importance of these things. 

        There wasn't much action, and the story was pretty straight forward, but I have to say, the last 10 pages made this book for me. It left me breathless, and almost a little emotional. It was a fantastic, simple finale that drives the point home. The book being such a short read (128 pages was how long my 1957 Signet one was, but with font size it's probably closer to double that) makes the read worth it just for that finale. If anything will stick with me in that book, it'll be the very last paragraph.


In conclusion This was a surprising book for me, I was expecting more action and more snarkiness (I guess I was expecting a Vonnegut version of it?) But instead I was pleasantly surprised by a little straightforward, somewhat serious story of a man who figures out that there are things much bigger than us. I would definitely recommend it, however would warn that it might bore those expecting a more upbeat adventure.
. “Take sides! Always take sides! You will sometimes be wrong - but the man who refuses to take sides must always be wrong.”

Double Star

Reviews