47 pages • 1 hour read
The Lathe Of Heaven
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Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • Near Future
1971
Adult
13+ years
Super Short Summary
The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin follows George Orr, an ordinary man in 2002 Portland, Oregon, whose dreams can alter reality. Forced into psychiatric care for substance use disorder, George comes under the control of Dr. William Haber, who manipulates his dreams to reshape the world, leading to unintended and often disastrous consequences. George allies with attorney Heather LeLache to regain control over his dreams and life.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Fantastical
Melancholic
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
85,213 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of Ursula K. Le Guin's The Lathe of Heaven praise its imaginative, thought-provoking narrative and rich exploration of reality and human nature. Critics laud Le Guin's masterful world-building and philosophical depth, though some find the pacing uneven or character development lacking. Overall, it remains a revered work in speculative fiction for its innovative concepts and storytelling.
Who Should Read The Lathe Of Heaven?
A reader who enjoys The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin likely has a keen interest in speculative fiction, exploring themes of reality and consciousness. Fans of Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? and George Orwell's 1984 will find its melding of dystopian elements and metaphysical questions captivating.
85,213 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Dr. William Haber
Dr. William Haber
A dream specialist and psychiatrist who becomes fascinated with George's ability, using an experimental machine to attempt to control and direct George's dreams for his own ambitious ends.
Heather Lelache Andrews
Heather Lelache Andrews
A strong-willed attorney who gets involved with George's case and becomes crucially entangled in the world changes wrought by his dreams, shifting in her role and relationship with George.
The Aldebaranian Aliens
The Aldebaranian Aliens
Initially perceived as a threat, these intriguing and philosophical creatures become friendly entities on Earth, embodying Taoist principles and playing a unique role in the unfolding events.
176
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • Near Future
1971
Adult
13+ years
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