52 pages 1 hour read

Bryce Courtenay

The Power of One

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1989

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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 this

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.

RecommendedReading Age

15+years

Lexile Level

940L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

Classic Fiction

Themes

Identity: Race

Emotions/Behavior: Revenge

Relationships: Friendship

Topics

History: World