52 pages • 1 hour read
The Power of One
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Book Brief
544
Novel • Fiction
South Africa • 1930s-1950s
1989
YA
15+ years
940L
Super Short Summary
The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay chronicles the journey of Peekay, an English-speaking white South African boy, as he grows up in the racially divided society of South Africa during and after World War II. Peekay’s experiences, which involve bullying, mentorship, and boxing, lead him to challenge the systemic racism of Apartheid and strive to become a champion boxer, gaining wisdom and allies along the way. The book features depictions of child abuse and racist violence and language.
Inspirational
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
95,201 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Bryce Courtenay's The Power of One is widely praised for its inspiring story and rich character development, especially the protagonist's resilience. Critics highlight the vivid South African setting and the compelling depiction of racial tensions. However, some find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally predictable. Overall, an uplifting read with deep social insights.
Who Should Read The Power of One?
Readers who appreciate coming-of-age stories with rich historical contexts, similar to To Kill a Mockingbird or Life of Pi, will enjoy Bryce Courtenay's The Power of One. It's ideal for those interested in themes of personal resilience and social justice, set against the backdrop of South Africa's apartheid era.
95,201 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Inkosi-Inkosikazi
Inkosi-Inkosikazi
A wise African medicine man who helps Peekay early in his life, teaching him valuable cultural lessons and instilling a sense of connection to South Africa's tribal heritage.
Hoppie Groenewald
Hoppie Groenewald
A kind and motivating train guard who introduces Peekay to boxing, inspiring him with the philosophy of using one's mind and heart for personal strength and resilience.
Doc
Doc
A tall, humorous, and intellectual German mentor who becomes a significant influence in Peekay's adolescent years, sharing his love for science and the South African environment.
Geel Piet
Geel Piet
A knowledgeable and resourceful prisoner who mentors Peekay in boxing and demonstrates remarkable adaptability within the prison's informal social system.
The Judge
The Judge
The novel's antagonist, a bullying schoolmate whose abusive behavior and pro-Nazi views profoundly impact Peekay's early life and set the stage for their ongoing conflict.
544
Novel • Fiction
South Africa • 1930s-1950s
1989
YA
15+ years
940L
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