Powerless

In a society where lies are law, a simple act of honesty can become the ultimate rebellion.

When does silent compliance with an oppressive regime become unbearable? For Charlie Simpkins, the manager of a small vegetable shop in Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley, part of the West Coast People's Democratic Republic, the breaking point comes when he is asked to display a meaningless propaganda poster in his shop window.

It is a seemingly insignificant act in a lifetime of obedience. But Charlie just can't bring himself to doing it. This minor act of defiance, however, show too much independent thinking on Charlie's part, setting off a chain of escalating consequences for Charlie and his wife and two children.

Powerless is a haunting dystopian tale of how even the smallest act of defiance can spiral into disaster in a society that demands total conformity. It serves as a chilling reminder of how easily standing up for one's principles can lead to crushing consequences, erringly echoing the challenges we face today for speaking our truth, even in societies that claim to uphold freedom.

While the novel draws original inspiration from Alexander Dubček's 1968 vision of "socialism with a human face" in Czechoslovakia (the reformist movement sought to humanize authoritarian rule), it will resonate with many who fear that individual freedoms are under attack in many parts of the world. In Powerless, Charlie Simpkins' growing disillusionment mirrors the psychological toll experienced by many today as political stress and uncertainty become ever more pervasive.

As Charlie seeks out others who share his dissatisfaction, his increasingly deliberate and risky actions symbolize the quiet acts of defiance that offer hope and resistance in a society where the powerful suppress dissent. Powerless serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences that can arise when standing up for one's principles in an environment that demands conformity.​

Author: Harry Turtledove
Publisher: CAEZIK SF & Fantasy
Published: 07/15/2025
Pages: 290
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.23lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.93d
ISBN: 9781647101497


Review Citation(s):
Booklist 05/27/2025

About the Author
Harry Turtledove is renowned for his alternate history and historical fiction, characterized by meticulous research and imaginative 'what if' scenarios. His engaging narrative style appeals to both history buffs and speculative fiction fans. Turtledove's awards include the Hugo Award for Best Novella, the HOMer Award for Short Story, and the John Esten Cooke Award for Southern Fiction. He has won multiple Sidewise Awards for Alternate History and he was named an honorary Kentucky Colonel for his literary contributions. Publishers Weekly dubbed him the "Master of Alternate History."