The Dispossessed
Ursula K. Le Guin · 1929–2018 · United States
Why it matters
A physicist travels between twin worlds (an anarchist moon and a capitalist planet), testing both against each other. Le Guin's 'ambiguous utopia,' the rare political novel that gives every side its due.
At a glance
speculative fictionpolitical novelphilosophical novel
Difficulty 6/10medium pace387 pagesBraided dual timelines and sustained political-philosophical argument require attention.
Where to go next
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Ursula K. Le Guin · 1971The Lathe of HeavenLvl 5Fast paced
Ted Chiang · 2002Stories of Your Life and OthersLvl 5Medium pace
Philip K. Dick · 1962The Man in the High CastleLvl 6Medium pace