Reviews 2026

These are the books I read over the last year, and a bit of what I thought about them…

Starship Troopers - robert a. heinlein

This is not the movie by the same name. It moves slower and concentrates heavily on the philosophy and moralization of a futuristic utopian society; a society ruled by veterans, requiring service to participate. Still, there is a fair amount of conflict and danger, even when Johnny Rico is simply training; but the crux of the book is Heinlein’s glorification of military service, and the men and women that volunteer. Although it is a bit light on story, and I personally would argue against the adoption of this utopian system which is so intricately fleshed out; I find the matter is intriguingly argued and shall willingly subject myself to more of Heinlein’s work in the future—and is that not a curious thing? That I should so immediately oppose the author’s views, and yet also vow to read more of his works? But then, Heinlein is just that interesting, in my humble opinion.

Gai-Jin by James Clavell

Once again, Mr. Clavell wrote a book over a thousand pages long, and somehow he makes it feel too short. In my opinion, he could have continued for a couple hundred more. I wouldn’t have minded. Indeed, this might be as close as I can get to a complaint, for although the major issues are wrapped up satisfactorily; I so enjoyed the company of the characters that I felt we left their presence all too early. This was very much a “life goes on” sort of ending. Although I admit there were fireworks aplenty, there is still a natural disappointment when such a marvel ceases in this way, as there are new challenges awaiting our heroes and villains. Alas, it is a cheap price for such an ambitious and bountiful tale. Worst of all, I have now read all six of James Clavell’s epic Asian Saga, so I have nothing more to look forward to—though it is a considerable brag to say that I have experienced all six of this master’s fine works.

If you should wish to investigate this wonderful writer, I would suggest reading his works in the order they were published, and not the order in which “events happen.”