In 2075, the Moon is no longer a penal colony. But it is still a prison. . . Life isnt easy for the political dissidents and convicts who live in the scattered colonies that make up lunar civilisation. Everything is regulated strictly, efficiently and cheaply by a central supercomputer, HOLMES IV. When humble technician Mannie OKelly-Davis discovers that HOLMES IV has quietly achieved consciousness (and developed a sense of humour), the choice is clear: either report the problem to the authorities. . . or become friends. And perhaps overthrow the government while theyre at it. the Moon is a Harsh Mistress has been called Robert A. Heinleins crowning achievement. His best-known novels include Starship Troopers Mistress and Stranger in a Strange Land.