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A review by iof
The Word for World is Forest by Ursula K. Le Guin
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
This is the first work by Ursula Le Guin I've read. I read it cover to cover in one sitting.
The book is a short parable about colonialism and genocide told from three perspectives: that of Davidson - a chauvinist army man in charge of managing the military logging and slaving operation on a reion of the Planet Athshe; Lyubov - an anthropologist documenting events; and Selver - an indigenous human who leads a revolt against the colonists.
It is okay but does repeat a number of clichés and tropes which have come under scrutiny in recent years. If you can look past the noble savage trope, the idealisation of supposed primitive societies, and the deceptively simple seeming narative, I think there is a lot to enjoy.
The book is a short parable about colonialism and genocide told from three perspectives: that of Davidson - a chauvinist army man in charge of managing the military logging and slaving operation on a reion of the Planet Athshe; Lyubov - an anthropologist documenting events; and Selver - an indigenous human who leads a revolt against the colonists.
It is okay but does repeat a number of clichés and tropes which have come under scrutiny in recent years. If you can look past the noble savage trope, the idealisation of supposed primitive societies, and the deceptively simple seeming narative, I think there is a lot to enjoy.
Content Warnings
Minor: Genocide