The Lathe of Heaven (1971) Signed First Edition Reference

The Lathe of Heaven is Le Guin’s most Dickian novel — a story about George Orr, whose dreams literally reshape reality. His therapist, Dr. Haber, attempts to direct Orr’s dreams to improve the world, with increasingly catastrophic results. Published by Scribner’s in 1971, the novel is a masterful exploration of unintended consequences, the arrogance of power, and the Taoist principle that action often causes more harm than acceptance.

First Edition Identification

Publisher: Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York Publication date: 1971 Format: Hardcover in dust jacket

Signed Copy Market Values

• Signed first edition, fine/fine: $500–$1,500
• Unsigned first edition: $50–$150

The novel’s Taoist philosophy and its exploration of reality manipulation connect it to Philip K. Dick’s thematic territory, and collectors of both authors often pursue this title. Two television adaptations (1980 and 2002) have given it additional cultural presence.