The Hand   By: Gerald Allan Sohl (1913-2002)

The Hand by Gerald Allan Sohl is a captivating science fiction novel that delves into the realms of telepathy, psychology, and the power of the human mind. Set in a not-too-distant future, the story follows a protagonist named Bill Longstreet, a young man who possesses an extraordinary ability - the power to manipulate objects with his mind. This ability, however, comes with a cost, as it seems to be linked to his increasing mental instability.

What makes The Hand stand out is Sohl's skillful exploration of complex themes. With a thought-provoking narrative, the author delves deep into the psychological impacts of having such an incredible gift and how it shapes a person's identity and relationships. Bill's struggles with accepting his powers and dealing with the fallout of his actions are portrayed in a way that feels both relatable and haunting.

Sohl weaves together a compelling plot that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The story is filled with unexpected twists and turns as Bill's powers attract the attention of a secretive government agency, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase. The author expertly builds tension and suspense, leaving readers eagerly turning the pages.

The characterization in this novel is also worth mentioning. Sohl skillfully develops not only the protagonist but also the supporting cast, each with their own unique motivations and flaws. The relationships between the characters are complex and nuanced, further adding depth to the narrative.

Moreover, Sohl's writing style is concise yet descriptive, effectively conveying the emotions and thoughts of the characters. The imagery used throughout the book vividly paints the scenes, creating a sense of immersion in the story.

One minor drawback of the novel is that certain aspects of the plot could have been further explored, particularly regarding the government agency and their motivations. While the story remains engaging, a deeper dive into these elements would have added another layer of intrigue and complexity.

Overall, The Hand is a thought-provoking and thrilling science fiction novel that will leave readers pondering the nature of power, identity, and the consequences of our choices. Sohl's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and engrossing narrative make this book a truly enjoyable read for fans of the genre.

First Page:

She dried her hands on her apron and tried to put down the suspicion that gnawed at the edge of her mind as she went to the door. During the past month Dobie had killed a cat, a pheasant, two rabbits and a field mouse and it seemed it would be only a question of time until he got one of the chickens or even one of the suckling pigs. That would be all Mac would need to throw one of his wild spells and he'd probably take a gun to Dobie as he had threatened to do. To make it worse, Dobie seemed to know how Mac felt and often growled at him... Continue reading book >>