Ursula K. Le Guin's AVATAR Inspiration Revealed - The Word for World is Forest Book Review

Here is my quick take on the fantastic book - The Word for World is Forest by Ursula K Le Guin. This Hugo Award winner inspired Avatar.
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[@vintagesf]

Ursula K. Le Guin is one of my favourite authors. I'm currently reading 'City of Illusions' 1967. It is her third novel, a short novel. There is a consistent high level of prose, she has a passion for world building (perhaps influenced by parents who were anthropologists) and her plots construct cultural bridges, often through journeys, leading to meaningful resolutions. Haven't read 'The Word for World is Forest' but will this year. Thank you for your take on the book!

[@bartsbookspace]

I couldn't agree with you more. Some authors are hit or miss, but that's not the case with Ursula; for me, she always delivers a satisfying, beautifully written story. I think you'll find The Word for World to be another good one.

[@bookspin]

Nice review! This is probably next on my list of Le Guin books to read (although I don't yet have a copy). The Lathe of Heaven was the first of hers I read and also my favourite.

[@bartsbookspace]

I think you'll like it, Robin. It's a very well-told story with great ideas and Le Guin's trademark prose.

[@jrpipik]

LeGuin is my favorite SF author. This is a terrific book, a reaction to the Vietnam War and much more. She once said Davidson is the only evil character she ever wrote. BTW her title for the book was "The Little Green Men," which was what cynics called aliens, but editor Harlan Ellison came up with "The Word for World is Forest" -- whatever you want to say about him, the man had a way with titles.

[@bartsbookspace]

Very interesting! I did not know that Ellison suggested the title. It makes sense however, his titles are certainly striking; eg:I have no mouth and I must Scream.
Davidson is certainly one of the most evil characters and the scary part is that he does not see it. The parts written from his perspective are powerful for that reason.
Thanks!

[@Seven-Planets-Sci-Fi-Tuber]

Thanks, Bart. I read this recently. My first Le Guin actually. I have the others in my skyscraping TBR. Forest is a thoughtful and engaging novel I enjoyed reading. It could be viewed as an unofficial sequel to Dr Seuss's The Lorax.. Cheers! 7🪐

[@bartsbookspace]

Yes, The Lorax! 😂 I watched the movie with my kids years ago, but totally forgot about it. Thanks for bringing back a great memory and for the thoughtful comment. 🙌

[@Seven-Planets-Sci-Fi-Tuber]

My pleasure!