31 pages 1 hour read

Ursula K. Le Guin

The Word for World is Forest

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1972

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Ursula K. Le Guin's novella The Word for World is Forest, humans colonize the forest planet Athshe, exploiting its resources and enslaving its native population. The oppressed Athsheans, led by Selver, revolt violently, eventually forcing the humans to leave. Post-departure, Selver worries about the permanence of violence introduced to his people. This story contains references to physical and sexual violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Reviews for Ursula K. Le Guin's The Word for World is Forest highlight its powerful environmental and anti-colonial themes. Critics praise the rich, immersive world-building and profound philosophical explorations. However, some find the narrative pacing uneven and certain character portrayals simplistic. Overall, it's celebrated for its thought-provoking and timely message.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Word for World is Forest?

Ideal for fans of thought-provoking science fiction, The Word for World is Forest by Ursula K. Le Guin appeals to readers interested in themes of environmentalism, colonialism, and human nature. Comparable to Dune by Frank Herbert and The Left Hand of Darkness by Le Guin herself, it captivates with its rich world-building and socio-political critique.

Recommended

Reading Age

15+years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Fantasy

Classic Fiction