The Power of One (1989)

I've read this book several times over the years - the protagonist, a young boy named Peekay , is so memorable and the story so inspiring I think I've recommended it to scores of students & friends. Part Bildungsroman, part social/ political novel , part memoir: we follow Peekay on his journey to young adulthood with such an engaging authentic voice, readers quickly become immersed in his world of 1940s South Africa. While Peekay's world remains firmly entrenched in the practices of apartheid, and all the cruelties inherent in such practices, the beauties of the African landscape and all the variety of people Peekay encounters helps lift the story with moments of wonder and joy, in spite of the constant challenges Peekay faces. ( )

Absolutely one of my favs! Loved the moral of how one thought, one person, one act can make a difference. ( )

The Power of One is a richly told tale of Peekay, who is growing up with one single goal in mind - to be the welterweight champion of the world. I've got to hand it to him. He had the dream when he was 6 years old and it defined who he was, carving his path to success in life and gave him character like no other. He is someone that you'd want to get to know and can understand why he has the admiration of so many he meets.

The author does an amazing job of introducing the reader to the various friends or acquaintances that Peekay has throughout the story. They all serve a purpose to further his life in some way, whether it's to instill a dream, teach him beyond his years, provide him with an income, tell him he has sinned, or provide conflict in some way. Doc was most likely the most influential in the eyes of the author as he kept reappearing, where many of the characters were in the story for only a brief time and then were never referenced again.

I loved the story (even though I realized I must have read most of it before), but was not as happy with the ending sequence. It just didn't seem to ring true to who Peekay was - what about a set fight? Wouldn't that have been better? The final scene actually annoyed me - it just seemed so out of character for him to get back in such a vindictive way. I would have expected him to rise above it and be a better person as a result.

Overall, a worthwhile read - just under a 4 star rating for me, but worthwhile. ( )

$2 at Vinnies. Different cover picture. scan it later.

This is in my top ten books of all time. READ IT!!! ( )