Decades since publication, Bryce Courtenay’s debut still packs an emotional punch.
A hard-fought coming-of-age story set against a backdrop of racism, hatred, conflict and oppression – The Power of One has been firing conversations since its 1989 release. And as a deeply affecting tale of overcoming the insurmountable, through time Bryce Courtenay’s debut novel has lost none of its spark. Take your book club on an African sojourn like no other, with the book that lit-up the literary star of one of Australia’s best-loved writers.
Discussion points and questions:
- What’s your read on the book’s title? In what ways does ‘The Power of One’ manifest itself in the story?
- How does it affect your reading of the novel to know that some of the narrative is based on Courtenay’s experiences growing up in South Africa?
- Which of Peekay’s qualities do you admire? What would you consider his flaws?
- What bearing does the Second World War have on the story?
- Do you have a mantra you return to like ‘the power of one’ in your own life?
- Why do you think Peekay became a symbol of hope that transcended racial boundaries?
- Have you encountered a nemesis, like the Judge, in your life? If so, what do you find is the best way to deal with them?
- Why do you think Peekay’s real name is never revealed to us?
- What would you say is the significance of education in the novel?
- In many ways, The Power of One is a critique of racism and intolerance. What are some lessons we can still learn from this story?
Bryce Courtenay: Storyteller is a memoir of Australia’s most beloved writer, written by his wife Christine Courtenay. Bryce Courtenay wrote twenty-one books in twenty-three years, and this candid, loving tribute reveals the man behind the books. But where should you start with Bryce’s work?
To celebrate thirty years of The Power of One our staff and authors reflect on what Bryce Courtenay's novel means to them.
Celebrating 30 years of Bryce Courtenay’s magnificent debut – The Power of One.
A gripping wartime memoir with a twist, to read with your book club.
A heart-breaking, funny, thought-provoking and honest novel to read with your book club.
A sparkling (and heart-breaking) Australian romantic comedy to read with your book club.
A special book to read with your book club this holiday season.
A fast-paced modern classic perfect for book clubs.
A laugh-out-loud book club choice with twists and turns galore.
A remarkable story about love, literature and family to read with your book club.
If your book club has already read The Thursday Murder Club, dive into book #2: The Man Who Died Twice.