The Word for World is Forest Book Summary

In the haunting tale of 'The Word for World is Forest', Ursula K. Le Guin explores the clash between civilization and nature on the distant planet of Athshe. The indigenous Athsheans, deeply connected to their lush environment, find their peaceful existence disrupted by aggressive human colonizers. As tensions escalate, the story delves into themes of identity, survival, and the profound consequences of exploitation. This thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to reflect on their own world, questioning the price of progress and the essence of what it means to coexist with nature. With lyrical prose and rich imagery, Le Guin masterfully weaves a story that lingers long after the last page is turned.

By Ursula K. Le Guin

Published: 2010

"The world is not just what we see, but what we understand when we listen — truly listen — to the stories of the trees, the songs of the forest."

Book Review of The Word for World is Forest

The award-winning masterpiece by one of today's most honored writers, Ursula K. Le Guin! The Word for World is Forest When the inhabitants of a peaceful world are conquered by the bloodthirsty yumens, their existence is irrevocably altered. Forced into servitude, the Athsheans find themselves at the mercy of their brutal masters. Desperation causes the Athsheans, led by Selver, to retaliate against their captors, abandoning their strictures against violence. But in defending their lives, they have endangered the very foundations of their society. For every blow against the invaders is a blow to the humanity of the Athsheans. And once the killing starts, there is no turning back.

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The world is not just what we see, but what we understand when we listen — truly listen — to the stories of the trees, the songs of the forest.

The Word for World is Forest

By Ursula K. Le Guin