Power of One

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Summary: An absolutely amazing and riveting novel
Review: The Power of One is without a doubt, one of most compelling novels I've ever read, and what prompted me into researching a bit into the history of the African (and European) people under Apartheid living in South Africa. The book, although from a British perspective, seems very unbiased, unlike what you might be thinking. The Power of One begins with the main character (who names himself Peekay) heading off to boarding school, away from his beloved nanny, and into the arms of Boers (Dutch, also called Afrikaners), who not only despise him for being British but despise him as a human being. Throughout boarding school, Peekay is ridiculed but promises himself that he'll never cry again. Although Peekay looses a friend (Grandpa Chook- a chicken of all things), he comes to realize the horrible riff that lies between the Dutch and the British. After leaving boarding school, Peekay encounters a man who teaches him about some of the essentials of what he believed was the power of one, and from this man (a Boer) he discovers his love of boxing, which became his obsession, becoming Welterweight Champion of the World became his goal and his life. This is just the idea behind the power of one, and the introduction of the story. From there, the book tells about the many people Peekay encounters throughout his life and the influence they had upon him and what he believed was the power of one. But what struck me was really how beautifully written the novel is and the way it combines wit, humor, drama, and the everyday troubles of life, and still manages to get its message across and entertain the reader. Just an absolutely incredible novel that sets across a striking vision of South Africa before and during the terror that was Apartheid.

Rating:
Summary: A MUST READ: BRILLIANT!
Review: I have been to South Africa and this book makes me want to go back. An AMAZING tale of triumph and the human spirit. After you read the book go out and buy the movie soundtrack. It is great as well. The movie, is a nice play on the book, but leaves heeps of story out and changes the plot quite significantly. Still worth a viewing.

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Summary: Great for Readers of all Genres
Review: "The Power of One" is both inspirational and well written. The first time I saw it, I did not think much of it. It was assigned as a summer reading assignment for school and I was not expecting to like this book at all. But, by the time I finished it I was reduced to tears of both joy and tears of pain. The tortures and joys that the character went through were immense and the emotional struggles were written extremly well. The author portrayed all aspects and ages of the main character well and also why he grew up the way he did. This book is great for readers of all genres because it is written so well, and if you are an experienced or tasteful reader you can not find fault with either the story line nor the characters. It is a wonderful work of art that will stimulate the mind of all readers. So weather you read science fiction or history, pick this book up, for it is amazing.

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Summary: The Power of One
Review: The Power of One is the best book I have ever read . I don't normally read fiction , but I was moved to read this book after enjoying the movie starring Morgan Freeman and Steven Dorff . The book is a bit different , but every bit as wonderful and powerful - if not more so . Bryce Courtenay said in his comments that he hoped this book would give readers inspiration to face the challenges in their own lives , and this novel has certainly done that for me since I first read it as a teenager nearly 8 years ago . It has truly changed my outlook on life and taught me , through Peekay , about perserverance , kindness , and integrity . I love this book . Thank you , Bryce Courtenay !

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Summary: I LOVED IT
Review: I love the principles that this book shows. The kid 'peekay', as he calls himself, just keeps winning. Despite the mass of obstacles that are his environment, he lives honestly and with a remarkable determination that proves to be his formula for winning in life.

Excellent story of pride, and victory despite loss and persecution. Beautifully set in the lowlands of South Africa. Great substitute for Harry Potter, as far as kids that overcame obstacles, with what they believed! Relatively easy read too.

Rating:
Summary: The Power of One
Review: I haven't read a book that pulled me in like this did in a very long time. To take the perspective of a young boy and present it in such a magical way made it impossible to put down. I became very attached to this fictional character and those who molded his life. To have a book become a treasure in your life, that touches you so deeply that it truly changes you, is the only way I can describe The Power of One.

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Summary: The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay
Review: A true inspiration of the human spirit. A wonderful, refreshing book.

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Summary: WOW!!
Review: WOW!! Amazing book! Life-changing. Read it now!

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Summary: movie is not worth it!
Review: I would not recommend the movie version, as this book was filled with way too much detail to shove into only two hours of film! If you must see the movie at least read the book first!

Rating:
Summary: truly exhilarating!
Review: This was the most amazing story I have ever read. Bryce Courtenay was able to capture every detail of Africa so thoroughly that I felt like I was there. I couldn't put it down! I found myself crying for Grampa Chook at the beginning and I didnt stop until the end.