Grumbles from the Grave

infobox Book |
name = Grumbles from the Grave


image_caption = First Edition cover for "Grumbles from the Grave"
author = Robert A. Heinlein
cover_artist = Michael Whelan
country = USA
language = English
genre = Science fiction memoir
publisher = Del Rey
release_date = 1989
media_type = Print (hardcover and paperback)

"Grumbles from the Grave" is as close as Robert A. Heinlein, ex-naval officer and prominent science fiction writer, came to writing an autobiography. The book contains a wide range of correspondence, notes and memoirs edited by Heinlein's wife Virginia Heinlein, published a year and a half after his death. It begins with a short biography of Robert by Virginia. The bulk of the book consists of excerpts of correspondence from the period from 1939 to 1970, from when he began writing science fiction until the onset of his first major illness. There is considerable information provided into how the 13-year gestation of Heinlein's famous novel "Stranger in a Strange Land" evolved. Additionally there is the original postlude to "Podkayne of Mars" and a discussion of cuts made to "Red Planet".

"Grumbles from the Grave" is notable for the insight it provides into Heinlein's writing process (and the editorial/publishing process with which he was often at odds). It also contains evidence of his philosophy as applied to his life and personal opinions, in addition to writing. There is much detail to interest readers familiar with Heinlein's fiction and people interested in the history of the science fiction field.

elected quotes

* "How long has this racket been going on?" — Heinlein's remark after receiving a $70 US check for his first published story (pg. 3).
* "I expect this to be my last venture in this field; 'tain't worth the grief" — Heinlein's response to attempts to censor his juvenile novel "Red Planet" for language, violence, and references to reproduction among Martians (pg. 53).