Is this book part of a series?

This is a standalone novel and does not require reading any other works to understand the story.

Are there any film or television adaptations of this book?

There are two television film adaptations, one produced by PBS in 1980 and a later remake produced by the A&E Network in 2002.

What is the origin of the book's title?

The title is derived from a passage in the writings of the ancient Chinese philosopher Chuang Tzu, which the author included as an epigraph in the book.

The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Le Guin

George Orr has a peculiar ability: his dreams manifest into reality. This gift, however, becomes a burden as he struggles to control it, leading him to seek help from a psychotherapist. When the therapist discovers the potential of Orr's power, their attempts to 'improve' the world create terrifying and unpredictable consequences, forcing Orr and a lawyer to find a way to set things right.

Prose complexity: 7/10

Thought-Provoking Dark Philosophical Complex

Chosen One Reluctant Hero

U

Ursula K. Le Guin

Ursula Kroeber Le Guin (née Kroeber; October 21, 1929 – January 22, 2018) was an American author. She is best known for her works of speculative fiction, including science fiction works set in her Hainish universe, and the Earthsea fantasy series. Her work was first published in 1959, and her literary career spanned nearly sixty years, producing more than twenty novels and more than a hundred short stories, in addition to poetry, literary criticism, translations, and children's books. Frequently...

George OrrProtagonist

Dr. William HaberAntagonist

Dr. Haber, psychiatristSupporting

All characters in The Lathe of Heaven

Frequently asked questions

Is this book part of a series?
This is a standalone novel and does not require reading any other works to understand the story.
Are there any film or television adaptations of this book?
There are two television film adaptations, one produced by PBS in 1980 and a later remake produced by the A&E Network in 2002.
What is the origin of the book's title?
The title is derived from a passage in the writings of the ancient Chinese philosopher Chuang Tzu, which the author included as an epigraph in the book.