The Man in the High Castle
Ratings281
Average rating3.5
15
Ratings281
Average rating3.5
The Man in the High Castle is an alternate history novel by American writer Philip K. Dick. Published and set in 1962, the novel takes place fifteen years after an alternative ending to World War II, and concerns intrigues between the victorious Axis Powers—primarily, Imperial Japan and Nazi Germany—as they rule over the former United States, as well as daily life under the resulting totalitarian rule. The Man in the High Castle won the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1963. Beginning in 2015, the book was adapted as a multi-season TV series, with Dick's daughter, Isa Dick Hackett, serving as one of the show's producers.
Reported inspirations include Ward Moore's alternate Civil War history, Bring the Jubilee (1953), various classic World War II histories, and the I Ching (referred to in the novel). The novel features a "novel within the novel" comprising an alternate history within this alternate history wherein the Allies defeat the Axis (though in a manner distinct from the actual historical outcome).
Reviews with the most likes.
Having read other Philip K. Dick novels, I didn't really expect this book to have a point or a clear conclusion, but I never expected to find it so.. upsetting. The vision presented in the novel is frightening, interesting at times, and at other times boring enough to make me skim through the pages. And then the entire thing just sort of fizzles out and ends with a whimper. 2.5, I guess? It was okay.
Another book I would have never read if not for my book club, especially because I don't really enjoy narratives where the Nazis win. And being such an old book, I had some trouble understanding the writing style and sometimes even the vocabulary, and I feel like a lot of the meta commentary and philosophizing went way above my head. I also didn't care much for any of the characters to feel invested in.
I still thought it might have a good ending that would make it worth my effort but that conclusion just blew my mind because I did not understand a single thing about what actually happened. What the f was that???? Just makes it feel like all the time I spent reading was pointless.
If you enjoy reading older books and award winners, then this might be for you. But like me, if you are more into modern writing styles and more accessible storytelling, I wouldn't recommend picking this one.
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