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My son (now 18) had many of the same issues when he was much younger and Heinlain had much the same effect on him.

I changed careers 3 years ago and started teaching at a college. What's really surprised me is that I've not had any students come through my classes who have read any of those books that I so loved as a teen. It's very sad. Both my daughters loved the same books I did and now this niece and my oldest granddaughter are as well. I liked the premise of this thread in order to expose kids to some really good stories!

Definitely give your niece Podkayne! I read it as a young teen and it was my first science fiction book. I loved it so much I think I still know most of it by heart. And it is far from sexist. Heinlein always had the deepest respect for women. His later books were terrible. I believe he had suffered a stroke. But all the early books are worthy. Later on she can read The Moon is a Harsh Mistress, my personal favorite as an adult.