City of Illusionsβ β β β β
Ursula K. Le Guin How can you be yourself when you donβt know who you really are? A story of isolation, adaptation, kindness, cruelty, trust and hope, and above all, how to piece together the truth (or at least pick out the lies) on a future, depopulated Earth.
Planet of Exileβ β β β β
Ursula K. Le Guin A tighter story than Rocannonβs World, with better-drawn characters, and more ambitious in its worldbuilding and themes.
Rocannonβs Worldβ β β ββ
Ursula K. Le Guin A serviceable quest story that melds fantasy and sci-fi. Engaging enough, but Iβd only recommend it to someone whoβs read her later work.
The Daughter of Odrenβ β β β β
Ursula K. Le Guin A small, stand-alone tale set in Earthsea, reminiscent of the folk tales glimpsed throughout the series. Betrayal, revenge, kindness, and power - and just living
The Lathe of Heavenβ β β β β
Ursula K. Le Guin A surreal tale of dreams changing reality, global stakes anchored by the three people involved. Be careful what you wish for.
Worlds of Exile and Illusionβ β β β β
Ursula K. Le Guin Interesting to see Le Guin as sheβs developing her craft. Not the best place to start with her work, but absolutely worth reading.