In 2075, the Moon is no longer a penal colony. But it is still a prison...

Life isn''t 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 O''Kelly-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 they''re at it.

The Moon is a Harsh Mistress has been called Robert A. Heinlein''s crowning achievement. His best-known novels include Starship Troopers Mistress and Stranger in a Strange Land.