If The Power of One weren't so full of exciting boxing matches and magical encounters with witch doctors, it might be accused of being a little preachy. The protagonist meets many different people who shape his life as he grows up, and each of them teaches him something, usually in easily digestible capsules of advice on courage, pride, boxing, and love. And it's not just the mentors; the protagonist himself is a really principled character who sees right and wrong clearly and usually acts accordingly.
Questions About Principles
- Which of the various principles that Peekay learns in the novel is one that you think you should live by?
- Choose three characters in the novel and name a principle that defines them and their actions.
- Do you consider Peekay to be a principled person? Why or why not?
Chew on This
The idea of the power of one is the principle of living independently, but Peekay actually depends on others every step of the way.
One of the most important parts of growing up is learning principles for life, and this novel shows that through its characters.