Speaking of books that are better than films, I would like to recommend Starship Troopers, by Robert Heinlein.
Although I even liked the film, the book is utterly different and deal with much deeper issues regarding why our society is breaking down basically how rights need to be earned through responsibilities.
I know it sounds like tough going, but really isn't.
I would never have read this book, and am not really into sci-fi, but I have been engrossed. It was recommended to me and I can pass on that recommendation.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starship_Troopers
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...83144?v=glance