What are the “uncut” versions of various Heinlein novels that have appeared in recent years?
Many of Heinlein’s novels were cut significantly before their initial publication. Some (Red Planet, Podkayne of Mars) were cut because an editor objected to certain material or story elements. Stranger in a Strange Land was cut drastically, mostly at RAH’s own discretion, to bring it down to what was regarded as a salable length. The Puppet Masters was hacked up by the original magazine editor and shortened for book appearance by Heinlein himself. With his death, many publishing contracts and options were terminated, and Virginia Heinlein was free to renegotiate terms. In the case of each of the novels named above, she chose to have the original, uncut versions of the manuscripts published. In general, any edition published before 1990 is the “original” book version; any version from 1990 on is the “uncut” or “restored” edition. Most of the latter carry a blurb on their covers trumpeting their complete nature. Serious readers will want to read both versions of each of these works. Gen
