The Power of One

ISBN-13:9780143004554

First with your head and then with your heart . . .

So says Hoppie Groenwald, boxing champion, to a seven-year-old boy who dreams of being the welterweight champion of the world. For the young Peekay, it is a piece of advice that he will carry with him throughout his life.

Born in a South Africa divided by racism and hatred, this one small boy will come to lead all the tribes of Africa. Through enduring friendships with Hymie and Gideon, Peekay gains the strength he needs to win out. And in a final conflict with his childhood enemy, the Judge, Peekay will fight to the death for justice.

Bryce Courtenay's classic bestseller is a story of the triumph of the human spirit – a spellbinding tale for all ages.

User Reviews

• Comment by Clive Turner April 21, 2010
  By far one of the best books that I have read in along time. The story gives an interesting insight into the struggle between black and white South Africans and the lengths that some people will go to bridge that gap and prove that above all colour does not matter. The tale of Peekay unfolds from the first page and is told in a way that will have you laughing, crying and a whole spectrum of emotions between but will always keep you thinking. I finished this book and couldn't wait to read the sequel , to continue following the tale of Peekay and those around him and whose life he touches.
• Comment by Derek Essen March 13, 2010
  My first Bryce Courtenay book and what a treasure. Have got several of my younger friends reading it with rave reviews - making me the hero. This book has inspired me to think differently towards colour and also pushed me on to read all of Bryces books - now in the middle of the trilogy and so glad I have found this wonderful author - you have to spend the time as the books are long but not time wasted and small writing and although its good to end a book all of these are the opposite - wish they would last for ever. Congratulations to Bryce for making so many people happy
• Comment by megan August 6, 2009
  The only words that come to mind when this book is mentioned is: Brillent and inspiring
• Comment by Skyler Ross June 29, 2009
  I can only say "WOW!" to the awe-inspiring and mystical nature of this book. I first read it in 6th grade, and now, as a high school student, am still raving about it!