manuphoto 's review for:

The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin

4.5

emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: No

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

---

A fascinating read about humanity and spirituality. In this relatively short book, Le Guin manages to tackle important themes about what makes us individuals and how societies work, with a cautionary tale riffing on “be careful what you wish for.”

In the hands of a lesser writer, it could have gotten tedious as we explore George’s (the main character's) dreams and the ensuing changes to reality. But Le Guin pulls it off easily. Her world-building is effortless, and she shows it off by recreating her own world several times in less than 200 pages! It never feels forced or confusing. It’s always very clear and pleasing to read.

I don’t want to dwell on the story too much, as I think it’s something that one should experience, not describe (a bit like a Philip K. Dick story), but I do highly recommend it. 

The quality of the prose, the originality of the story, and the important topics make it a wholesome, excellent science fiction novel. Sure, the characters aren’t that deep and basically serve as plot devices, but I don’t really care if the story is compelling and relevant. This story is both, on many levels.