This science fiction classic by the Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author is “a rare and powerful synthesis of poetry and science, reason and emotion” (The New York Times). In a near-future world beset by war, climate change, and overpopulation, Portland resident George Orr discovers that his dreams have the power to alter reality. Upon waking, the world he knew has become a strange, barely … become a strange, barely recognizable place, where only George has a clear memory of how it was before. Seeking escape from these “effective dreams,” George eventually turns to behavioral psychologist Dr. William Haber for a cure. But Haber has other ideas in mind.
Seeing the profound power of George’s dreams, Haber believes it must be harnessed for the greater good—no matter the cost. Soon, George is a pawn in Haber’s dangerous game, where the fate of humanity grows more imperiled with every waking hour.
As relevant today as it was when it won the Locus Award in 1971, The Lathe of Heaven is a true classic, at once eerie and prescient, entertaining and intelligent. In short, it does “what science fiction is supposed to do” (Newsweek).
“When I read The Lathe of Heaven as a young man, my mind was boggled; now when I read it…it breaks my heart. Only a great work of literature can bridge – so thrillingly – that impossible span.”—Michael Chabon
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I was truly saddened by Ursula’s passing–she was a giant in the SF field and her books had a profound impact on me, starting with Lathe of Heaven. It blew open my mind, twisted it around, and reshaped it into something better. I’m still mourning the loss of her in the world.
Main character George Orr resorts to drugs to avoid to avoid sleep because he has found that his dreams have the ability to alter reality. When he is discovered, he is mandated to take therapy sessions. Once his doctor discovers George’s power, he begins to affect his own changes through George via post-hypnotic suggestion. The doctor insists …
I read this book when it was first released and loved it. When I was looking for something new to read I ran across it and decided to see how well it aged. The answer? Spectacularly. Part science fiction and part prophecy, Le Guin penned a tale for the ages. If you’ve already read it, it’s worth a return visit. If not, what are you waiting for? …
Thought-provoking
Full of unintended consequences, this is a fantastic story. After you read her work seek out the Hollywood version. It was also very well done.
Loved it! Need to find more like this to make me think!
A very compelling story of a unique future or reality. The main character’s ability is truly interesting, as is his struggle for control.
What an interesting book which asks some very thought-provoking questions. If you could play God, would you? Is any individual smart enough, selfless enough, compassionate enough to play God? Are important, life-altering decisions better made by a sole individual or a government? Unfortunately, there are those in society who think they could …
Science fiction should be an amazing ride, but give readers something deeper to contemplate. That is what Ursula K. Le Guin delivers with this eerie and fascinating story. As a man sleeps, his dreams literally change the world. This rare, magical tale is interpreted in many ways. Your mood on a given day could affect the way you feel about the …
Too bleak & obscure for me.