The word for world is forest, by Ursula Le Guin.

It took me awhile to get into it. It’s kind of slow building. But by the end I was completely hooked. It’s one of those stories where there’s no good guys. Just complicated people. And it’s definitely a product of its time, but still stands up.

There were a few moments where it was very clear when this was written. For example there was a reference at one point to children playing blacks versus Rhodesians. Which puts it firmly in the early 80s.

But other than that the themes were universal. Racism, slavery, and toxic masculinity.

It’s a quick read, and worthwhile if you like interplanetary sci-fi.