"The Star Beast" by Robert A. Heinlein (1908-1988)

Publisher:   Ballantine Del Rey
Copyright: 1954
ISBN: 0345275802

The Star Beast is set quite some time after the Rolling Stones, but it is never explicitly stated when, although it implies a span of at least 100 to 200 years. I say this because not only have the events from Starman Jones taken place, but interstellar travel is very common and numerous other lifeforms have been encountered, and diplomatic relations established with them. In addition the great-great-great grandfather of the protagonist was on one of the first starships to attempt interstellar travel, which provides the backstory for this novel.

The protagonist is John Thomas Stewart the XI, who happens to own a pet by the name of Lummox. Lummox is an alien creature, from an unknown/uncontested species that was collected/adopted by John's great-great-great grandfather and smuggled to earth. Lummox has been a family pet that has been passed down from generation to generation and has now been with the family over 100 years.

The first part of the book is an exploration of the relationship between John and Lummox, and some of the trouble he caused when he escapes from home and reeks havoc throughout the town, there was also the time when Lummox ate a Buick, but this was in the past.

The book also explores in a fair bit of detail how interstellar politics could manifest itself, when we contact another civilizations, such as when Lummox's people come looking for him as they consider that he has been kidnapped. This includes, but is not limited to the political wrangling, arguments, petty politics inherent in the system. It also humorously touches on subjects such as xenophobia, hidden agendas, conspiracy theories, isolationist policies, and the general silliness that is inherit when dealing with groups humans.

Once again this is a wonderful book for teens and young adults but one that will probably be enjoyed by readers of all ages.