Red Planet, by Robert A. Heinlein, is a science fiction novel set in the near future on Mars. The main story takes place in human colonies and cities, although parts take place in Martian cities and in wastelands. The story is told in the third person limited point of view, and focuses mainly on one character: Jim Marlowe.

Jim Marlowe is a young boy, who is the son of two colonists on Mars. He has a pet named Willis. Willis is an indigenous species to Mars, and can record and play back any conversation he overhears. This is central to the later plot of the story. Jim and Willis live a carefree life, until they are sent to a harsh school, where Jim's resolve will be tested.

The story starts when Jim and his friend Frank are sent to a boarding school on Mars' equator. There they have to study under a tyrannical schoolmaster. This eventually gets to be too much for them, so they run away. Before they do so, however, Jim's pet, Willis, overhears a conversation that puts the colonists in danger. Jim and his friend must escape the wrath of the headmaster, and bring news of imminent peril to his colony. When they finally arrive at the colony, the colonists decide to declare themselves free of Earth and the humans who control them. They rebel against the harsh overseers, including the schoolmaster, and become a free nation on Mars. There is a struggle, but the colonists prevail. They are even able to live in harmony with the Martians. This signifies the ultimate breakaway from Earth, that must happen if humans are to survive in the galaxy.

I loved this book. I am a passionate science fiction reader, and love Heinlein's books. This book was suspenseful and contained thought-provoking concepts. I recommend it to any new science fiction readers who want their perspective challenged.