Official Review: Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard

sarahmarlowe randomeducator · 04 Jul 2020, 12:10

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Battlefield Earth" by L. Ron Hubbard.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3000 by L. Ron Hubbard was initially released in 1982 and has become a science-fiction classic. I jumped at the chance to review this 2016 edition of the book. I had heard it referenced many times as a great science fiction read, but I had never gotten around to reading the tome. I love science fiction. I especially like the science fiction of the 1950s and 1960s because of the adventure and imaginative technology that the authors devised. I knew that Hubbard had written mostly short science fiction then, but I wondered if he could keep his plot and characters exciting and focused through 1,000 pages. Well, he did.

Our hero is Jonnie Goodboy Tyler, born in Colorado nearly 1,000 years after the people of Earth have been decimated by an alien race called the Psychlos. The Psychlos still inhabit Earth, mining it for its metals and minerals. They send the bounty across 16 universes as part of the work of the Intergalactic Mining Company. They are so busy mining and making credits that they are unconcerned with the small pockets of humans that dot the Earth. However, when one greedy Psychlo named Terl decides to have a little fun with some humans, he unknowingly opens a door of opportunity for Jonnie and his friends to fight back.

These many pages offer countless surprises, cliffhangers, and twists that kept me interested. Upon returning to my reading each time, I was eager to see what would happen next. While the prose in Battlefield Earth is not flowery, Hubbard drops some nice description here and there to help draw the reader into his world. For instance, "The faint light of the dying moon reflected from the snowcapped peak behind him and gave a faint luminescence to the plain." (page 233) But the basis of Battlefield Earth is hard science fiction. There are segments of the text that are heavy in scientific jargon and concept, but it is not an overwhelming read, even if you are not into scientific fact and fiction details.

Adding to the 1,000 pages are extras, including Hubbard's very long introduction, an interview with him, and lyrics to songs he wrote to go along with the book. To readers concerned about whether or not Scientology plays a part in the plot, it does not. However, there are questions and answers about it at the end of the book. There is also an opportunity to receive a free ebook that gives more information about the Battlefield Earth characters. I downloaded it, and I found it interesting. I don't know that it really enhanced the book, but it was attractive and well organized. I do note, though, that while several of the characters are well rounded, they are not remarkably diverse.

I give Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3030 4 out of 4 stars. While there are a handful of punctuation mishaps in the text, there were not enough to require removing a star, quite a feat for such a long novel. It has obviously been professionally edited more than once since this is a new edition. Many of the main characters are multi-layered, and the plot is fast-paced. Potential readers should know that there is a little profanity and some violence, but there is no gore. Additionally, there are no sexual situations and no religious undertones.

I recommend this book to readers who enjoy good science fiction and like having a well-defined hero. If you appreciate classic science fiction, you will relish this book. It is for readers seeking heroes, adventure, aliens, and sci-fi technology. Because of the rare use of mild profanity and the lack of sexual encounters, I include young adults in my recommendation. However, if you are looking for diverse characters, strong females, fantasy, or a short read, you will need to look elsewhere.

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Battlefield Earth
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Priyanka2304 · Post by **Priyanka2304** » 12 Jul 2020, 12:05

The title of the book resonates with the name of a video game. I really enjoyed reading your review. It was amazing.

Valkyrie9 · Post by **Valkyrie9** » 13 Jul 2020, 04:22

It would seem "tome" is quite an apt description, considering its 1000 pages and heavy science fiction jargon and concepts. This sounds like the perfect read for those who love action-packed, well-crafted sci-fi. Thanks for the thorough review!

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 13 Jul 2020, 11:01

I read this series many years ago, so my memory of the story is really blurred. Maybe one day I'll read it again. Thank you for your great review!

David Gaull · Post by **David Gaull** » 16 Aug 2020, 08:07

This book is a good read, certainly much better than Hubbard’s attempt at religion.

Menace Crypto · Post by **Menace Crypto** » 07 Sep 2020, 21:45

I'm awed. I loved your review, it has really made me want to read this book. Thanks a lot for the well-detailed review. Kudos.

Allison smith 1 · Post by **Allison smith 1** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:15

This book was one of the first ones I’ve read in a while that I didn’t get bored with! It’s very catchy!!

Post by **Sushan Ekanayake** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:34

"Battlefield Earth: A Saga of the Year 3000" by L. Ron Hubbard is a sci-fi epic that delivers nonstop action, alien intrigue, and a classic hero’s journey. Follow Jonnie Goodboy Tyler as he leads humanity’s fight against the ruthless Psychlos. Packed with twists, tech, and hard science, it’s a must-read for fans of classic, fast-paced sci-fi. Congratulations on being BOTD!

Chris Agbara · Post by **Chris Agbara** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:38

"Battlefield Earth" by L. Ron Hubbard is a classic sci-fi epic that's a must-read for fans of the genre! With its richly detailed world, complex characters, and gripping plot twists, this 1,000-page tome is a wild ride that's hard to put down.

tarafarah7 · Post by **tarafarah7** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:40

Originally released in 1982, this 2016 version of today's BOTD will have true fans of Science Fiction running to download it! Readers will love the action-packed scenes, as well as the characters and adventurous storyline. It's not for me, but I appreciate your helpful review (and enthusiasm)! Keep up the great work!

Antoaneta A · Post by **Antoaneta A** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:41

L. Ron Hubbard’s Battlefield Earth is a 1,000-page sci-fi epic set 1,000 years after humanity’s near-destruction by alien Psychlos. It follows Jonnie Goodboy Tyler’s fight to reclaim Earth, blending action, twists, and hard sci-fi elements.

Though the prose is straightforward, the story remains engaging, with occasional vivid descriptions. The 2016 edition includes bonus content, adding depth to the experience.

I rate it 4/4 stars for its fast pace, layered plot, and classic sci-fi appeal. Ideal for fans of adventure and alien conflicts, though less suited for those seeking diverse characters or strong female leads. A must-read for sci-fi lovers!

Post by **Bertha Jackson** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:47

The idea of a small group of humans fighting aliens sounds intriguing. Thank you for your informative review.

Post by **Rupali Mishra** » 03 Jan 2025, 10:49

Congrats on BOTD!
L. Ron Hubbard's sci-fi epic Battlefield Earth features incessant action, alien intrigue, and a typical hero's journey, with Jonnie Goodboy Tyler leading humanity's battle against the merciless Psychlos. Hard science, technology, and twists abound in this must-read for aficionados of vintage, fast-paced science fiction.

Devesh Patel · Post by **Devesh Patel** » 03 Jan 2025, 11:06

This review captures the essence of "Battlefield Earth" with a balanced critique and clear enthusiasm. The detailed plot summary, praise for the fast-paced narrative, and clarification about potential reader concerns make it a compelling recommendation. While the lack of diversity is noted, the review’s engaging style and thorough evaluation highlight why sci-fi fans might enjoy this epic tale.

Melchizedek Asuma · Post by **Melchizedek Asuma** » 03 Jan 2025, 11:23

Great review. As I was reading it, a weird question popped up in my mind. Has anyone ever read a science fiction book in which the setting reflected, or came close to reflecting, the world today? Like, is any sci-fi book from the previous millennium a reflection of this one, given our rapid development in technology? That aside, a thousand pages does seem to be a lot, but I might be interested in reading it.