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T for Tolerance
"Truth is dangerous. Society has taught me that and I’m still learning today, painstakingly walking the jagged edge of this knowledge."
It’s Britain 2041. Freedom of speech is no longer a legal right, and the concept of tolerance has been twisted. When teenager, Sathya, boldly shares her beliefs, she is betrayed by her twin sister and has her own rights stripped away.
Surrounded by danger, Sathya must battle her own doubts as well as the determination of the thought police to break her. Will she hold onto truth against all odds and find freedom?
It’s Britain 2041. Freedom of speech is no longer a legal right, and the concept of tolerance has been twisted. When teenager, Sathya, boldly shares her beliefs, she is betrayed by her twin sister and has her own rights stripped away.
Surrounded by danger, Sathya must battle her own doubts as well as the determination of the thought police to break her. Will she hold onto truth against all odds and find freedom?
- GenresYoung Adult
Unknown Binding
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 26, 2023
A Novel for our Times
****Spoiler And Trigger Warnings
Katherine Blessan's T for Tolerance should be handed out in schools as mandatory social studies reading. What a gift she has for presenting with delicate language, an old and ugly foe, Prejudice.
Blessan's characters are young, pleasant adults from the UK, preparing to go to University or Uni, as they call it. They indulge in typical teenage activities, social media, eating out, video games and religious activities.
As the UK is mostly multicultural, there are a plentitude of activities to engage in. The government in the world of 2040 is mostly run by corporations, the power held by churches in the past has waned.
Society is now based upon respect. People believe that if everyone respects everyone else's beliefs, there will be peace and harmony. In the UK, a law is passed against "hate speech", mostly defined as statements that are made declaring that any one way is the ONLY way, are to be heavily punished.
Although in T for Tolerance, it is Christianity that has become pariah and the supporters of which, the group of people who must be "reeducated" and, if necessary, eradicated.
The same metaphor could be applied to any other marginalized group, whether like what's happening in America with African Americans or LGBTQIA people or as the horrors of the past hold in the likes of the Holocaust and the systemic genocide in Serbia and Africa.
Security cameras appear first, a long with admonishments to "watch what you say" from parents. Then, churches are driven underground in order to meet. Children begin disappearing with no reason.
In the reeducation camps, people are subject to electroshock at will for speaking against the staff. They are enrolled in Mind training classes that are coupled with subliminal hypnosis. Everyone follows a strict athletic program and most of them are exhausted all the time.
The book follows the journey of a young East Indian adult named Saytha, from happy schoolgirl to betrayed sister to refugee from the camps. Her story is both an agonizing one and a joyous one. It is definitely worth reading.
One might ask, "Why such heavy philosophy in a young adult novel?" I would reply, "If not now, when?"
****Spoiler And Trigger Warnings
Katherine Blessan's T for Tolerance should be handed out in schools as mandatory social studies reading. What a gift she has for presenting with delicate language, an old and ugly foe, Prejudice.
Blessan's characters are young, pleasant adults from the UK, preparing to go to University or Uni, as they call it. They indulge in typical teenage activities, social media, eating out, video games and religious activities.
As the UK is mostly multicultural, there are a plentitude of activities to engage in. The government in the world of 2040 is mostly run by corporations, the power held by churches in the past has waned.
Society is now based upon respect. People believe that if everyone respects everyone else's beliefs, there will be peace and harmony. In the UK, a law is passed against "hate speech", mostly defined as statements that are made declaring that any one way is the ONLY way, are to be heavily punished.
Although in T for Tolerance, it is Christianity that has become pariah and the supporters of which, the group of people who must be "reeducated" and, if necessary, eradicated.
The same metaphor could be applied to any other marginalized group, whether like what's happening in America with African Americans or LGBTQIA people or as the horrors of the past hold in the likes of the Holocaust and the systemic genocide in Serbia and Africa.
Security cameras appear first, a long with admonishments to "watch what you say" from parents. Then, churches are driven underground in order to meet. Children begin disappearing with no reason.
In the reeducation camps, people are subject to electroshock at will for speaking against the staff. They are enrolled in Mind training classes that are coupled with subliminal hypnosis. Everyone follows a strict athletic program and most of them are exhausted all the time.
The book follows the journey of a young East Indian adult named Saytha, from happy schoolgirl to betrayed sister to refugee from the camps. Her story is both an agonizing one and a joyous one. It is definitely worth reading.
One might ask, "Why such heavy philosophy in a young adult novel?" I would reply, "If not now, when?"
October 9, 2023
When you can't say what you think.
Written for young adults, T for Tolerance takes us into an imaginary Britain where the government ‘tolerance’ legislation is designed to prevent people thinking for themselves and being free to follow their own lights. The story is told in the first person. We follow the journey of Sathya, a seventeen-year-old mixed race Christian girl from Sheffield. By persisting in her beliefs she finds herself removed from social media networks and denied entry into university. But it doesn’t stop there, it gets worse. Katherine Blessan explores what it costs young people to be free to pursue faith when freedom of belief is denied and freethinkers are subject to methods of coercion, torture and mind control.
Set in a very English South Yorkshire, with it’s familiar, safe-sounding place names, the full horror of an ultra right wing regime of 2041 is scary. Could it happen? Might we find ourselves in a time when, in order to stay safe, we have to deny ourselves the right to explore ideas and say what we think?
As we read the book, we become aware that this is exactly where many young people are in our world today. There are totalitarian regimes in many corners and even great nations where, in order to stay safe, people are required to conform or, at least, remain closemouthed.
Sometimes this is not comfortable reading but I believe all young people can benefit from this book. Although written from a Christian perspective and Muslims are met on the way, it does not promote any single religion but rather the importance of allowing the democratic freedoms. It asks the question: When injustice reigns and populations are oppressed, should I stay silent? Is safety more important than freedom?
Written for young adults, T for Tolerance takes us into an imaginary Britain where the government ‘tolerance’ legislation is designed to prevent people thinking for themselves and being free to follow their own lights. The story is told in the first person. We follow the journey of Sathya, a seventeen-year-old mixed race Christian girl from Sheffield. By persisting in her beliefs she finds herself removed from social media networks and denied entry into university. But it doesn’t stop there, it gets worse. Katherine Blessan explores what it costs young people to be free to pursue faith when freedom of belief is denied and freethinkers are subject to methods of coercion, torture and mind control.
Set in a very English South Yorkshire, with it’s familiar, safe-sounding place names, the full horror of an ultra right wing regime of 2041 is scary. Could it happen? Might we find ourselves in a time when, in order to stay safe, we have to deny ourselves the right to explore ideas and say what we think?
As we read the book, we become aware that this is exactly where many young people are in our world today. There are totalitarian regimes in many corners and even great nations where, in order to stay safe, people are required to conform or, at least, remain closemouthed.
Sometimes this is not comfortable reading but I believe all young people can benefit from this book. Although written from a Christian perspective and Muslims are met on the way, it does not promote any single religion but rather the importance of allowing the democratic freedoms. It asks the question: When injustice reigns and populations are oppressed, should I stay silent? Is safety more important than freedom?
August 1, 2023
I loved this book ! Even though it’s set in the future, it’s still very relatable to todays time .! Definitely recommend, you will not be disappointed!
May 8, 2024
Set in a haunting vision of Britain in 2041, “T for Tolerance” explores a society where the cherished right of freedom of speech has been abolished. The story follows Sathya, a courageous individual who dares to express her beliefs in a public forum, only to face severe consequences. As a strong Christian, Sathya finds herself removed from social media platforms, refused entry at university, and becomes a social outcast following her sister’s betrayal. In a shocking turn of events, her parents seemingly do little to defend or fight her corner, leaving her to face the consequences alone. Stripped of her rights and hunted by the thought police, Sathya is forced to flee her homeland and seek refuge with family in India. As she rebels against the oppressive social control, she embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery. The author portrays her struggles, capturing the emotional turmoil and resilience that come with challenging societal norms.
The narrative delves into the complexities of Sathya’s predicament, exploring the themes of faith, freedom, and the power of individual expression. Through Sathya’s story, readers are confronted with the consequences of a society that suppresses differing beliefs and the lengths one must go to defend their values. The author’s portrayal of Sathya’s rebellion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what one believes in, even in the face of adversity. Her character’s internal conflict, as she grapples with her faith and the consequences of speaking out, resonates with readers on a profound level. Her journey from social outcast to a defiant rebel showcases her growth and determination, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
The pacing of the narrative is well crafted, balancing moments of intense action with introspective reflection. The author’s descriptions and detail immerse readers in the dystopian world, creating a palpable sense of urgency and tension. The harrowing choices Sathya must make keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to uncover her fate.
“T for Tolerance” is not only a thrilling dystopian novel but also a poignant exploration of the consequences of stifling freedom of speech. It prompts readers to reflect on the dangers of suppressing differing beliefs and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Sathya’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for our fundamental rights.
This is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into a dystopian future where freedom of speech is suppressed. Sathya’s story of courage, rebellion, and self-discovery captivates readers and challenges them to examine the consequences of silencing dissenting voices. Fans of dystopian fiction and narratives that explore themes of faith, freedom, and resilience will find “T for Tolerance” to be a compelling and timely read.
I enjoyed reading this YA novel and award 5 stars.
The narrative delves into the complexities of Sathya’s predicament, exploring the themes of faith, freedom, and the power of individual expression. Through Sathya’s story, readers are confronted with the consequences of a society that suppresses differing beliefs and the lengths one must go to defend their values. The author’s portrayal of Sathya’s rebellion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what one believes in, even in the face of adversity. Her character’s internal conflict, as she grapples with her faith and the consequences of speaking out, resonates with readers on a profound level. Her journey from social outcast to a defiant rebel showcases her growth and determination, making her a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
The pacing of the narrative is well crafted, balancing moments of intense action with introspective reflection. The author’s descriptions and detail immerse readers in the dystopian world, creating a palpable sense of urgency and tension. The harrowing choices Sathya must make keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning the pages to uncover her fate.
“T for Tolerance” is not only a thrilling dystopian novel but also a poignant exploration of the consequences of stifling freedom of speech. It prompts readers to reflect on the dangers of suppressing differing beliefs and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. Sathya’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for our fundamental rights.
This is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into a dystopian future where freedom of speech is suppressed. Sathya’s story of courage, rebellion, and self-discovery captivates readers and challenges them to examine the consequences of silencing dissenting voices. Fans of dystopian fiction and narratives that explore themes of faith, freedom, and resilience will find “T for Tolerance” to be a compelling and timely read.
I enjoyed reading this YA novel and award 5 stars.
July 8, 2023
T FOR TOLERANCE by KATHERINE BLESSEN 197 Pages
The year is 2040, the cast are twins, Naomi and Sathya, who couldn't be more different. Their faith is tested, really tested by new laws that prohibit one expressing an opinion seen as "politically incorrect". It's a rather scary scenario where only certain elements of human rights have, well, rights. And Sathya is on the wrong side of rule "section 44" By expressing her belief on social media, she's been blocked from using any of her apps. But what devastates her is it's because of her sister, her sister's betrayal under the guize of protecting her.
This book is very much steeped in the Christian faith, the biblical references are dispersed throughout, and the plot has a real Revelation feel to it. It highlights just how far society can go to "feel offended" It rings true to so much that is current in today's society and that's what makes this a very profoundly disturbing read. It's not the content of the novel which is disturbing, it's the way anything can be misconstrued as "hate speech" Whilst I don't condone or agree with what Naomi has done, I do understand that it came from a place of fear, a place of love, however misguided it might be. Or perhaps it's just her being pragmatic. This is all about control, the powers that be wanting to control the rhetoric, what one can do, or say, or project.
I found the writing very compelling, the plot, as I mentioned, rather dire but most of all I found myself thinking "what if". It's a very thought provocing read, for me at any rate, one that shows the ugly side of humanity, with brother against brother, or in this case, sister against sister. This is a read for those open-minded, who are able to see beyond what society deems right or wrong or offensive. This is not a book advocating for any one religion, although I'm sure some will see it as such, rather it's a book advocating for everyone's voice to be heard. Equally. Without prejudice. Without bias.
The year is 2040, the cast are twins, Naomi and Sathya, who couldn't be more different. Their faith is tested, really tested by new laws that prohibit one expressing an opinion seen as "politically incorrect". It's a rather scary scenario where only certain elements of human rights have, well, rights. And Sathya is on the wrong side of rule "section 44" By expressing her belief on social media, she's been blocked from using any of her apps. But what devastates her is it's because of her sister, her sister's betrayal under the guize of protecting her.
This book is very much steeped in the Christian faith, the biblical references are dispersed throughout, and the plot has a real Revelation feel to it. It highlights just how far society can go to "feel offended" It rings true to so much that is current in today's society and that's what makes this a very profoundly disturbing read. It's not the content of the novel which is disturbing, it's the way anything can be misconstrued as "hate speech" Whilst I don't condone or agree with what Naomi has done, I do understand that it came from a place of fear, a place of love, however misguided it might be. Or perhaps it's just her being pragmatic. This is all about control, the powers that be wanting to control the rhetoric, what one can do, or say, or project.
I found the writing very compelling, the plot, as I mentioned, rather dire but most of all I found myself thinking "what if". It's a very thought provocing read, for me at any rate, one that shows the ugly side of humanity, with brother against brother, or in this case, sister against sister. This is a read for those open-minded, who are able to see beyond what society deems right or wrong or offensive. This is not a book advocating for any one religion, although I'm sure some will see it as such, rather it's a book advocating for everyone's voice to be heard. Equally. Without prejudice. Without bias.
July 17, 2023
I'll be 68 in 2041, and if I'm still in Sheffield by then, then I've been given a frightening and fascinating glimpse into the future. In many ways, the impact of what we say on social media is already front page news, so T for Tolerance is certainly topical and believable. Free speech is banned, now imagine your own sister as the one who has reported you to the authorities, not only are you banned from social media but you can’t even use money either.
Although this is a faith based book, it’s important reading for everyone who believes that we should be able to say what we think. For those who are fans of dystopian novels, this is a must read.
I found it compelling and disturbing, and I believe this book will create some interesting and heated discussions. Well worth reading.
Although this is a faith based book, it’s important reading for everyone who believes that we should be able to say what we think. For those who are fans of dystopian novels, this is a must read.
I found it compelling and disturbing, and I believe this book will create some interesting and heated discussions. Well worth reading.
July 4, 2023
What a page turner T for Tolerance is! This dystopian tale imagines a world where there is no such thing as privacy, and any words or even thoughts outside accepted norms in that society are forbidden. Anyone who dares to challenge the system is 're-educated'. Sathya is a Christian and increasingly finding that speaking out about her faith is frowned upon and then squashed entirely. She doesn't know who she can trust anymore and finds herself at the mercy of the government, lost and afraid.
With echoes of George Orwell's '1984' and more modern dystopian stories such as Divergent, yet unique because set in a faith context, I found this book compelling and well written. This story had me on the edge of my seat and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
With echoes of George Orwell's '1984' and more modern dystopian stories such as Divergent, yet unique because set in a faith context, I found this book compelling and well written. This story had me on the edge of my seat and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
July 21, 2023
I read this book pretty quickly and as a lover of dystopian fiction, that wasn't a surprise. I thought the concept of the world, set in England in 2040 was fascinating and a brave one for the author to tackle. We follow the life of Sathya who experiences how freedom of speech is becoming increasingly squeezed out of her world. She's thrown into a life of unexpected trouble, many that a teenager of her age should never face. In that way, its similar to The Hunger Games and Divergent. A book with quite a few twists and turns, T for Tolerance would be good for most readers, especially young adults.
July 28, 2023
What happens if your beliefs are not allowed? Can tolerance become a new form of coercion? This exciting story follows the adventures of a young woman who is forced to choose between her beliefs and her freedom. It's a thought-provoking story set in a near-future world where people who express unpopular views are snatched from the streets and taken for re-education. It will challenge your thinking and keep you rooting for the feisty protagonist right up to the last page.
August 18, 2023
'Raise up a banner'. Then it was for a purer Communism, but in Katherine Blessan's new novel it's for 'Tolerance'.
It is a troubling hour in the United Kingdom as the clouds of a dark zeitgeist roll over the face of sun. This dystopian YA novel is set in 2040, after section 44, new laws making it illegal to ‘express a thought that could be deemed offensive to another group’, have been enacted, but it feels uncomfortably closer.
Our protagonist, Sathya, is advised by her family to tone down her online chat about the exclusive claims of Jesus - and doesn’t. She is blocked on social media sites. Universities deem her ‘unsuitable’. She witnesses other believers around her losing their jobs.
Like informers in the ‘Cultural Revolutions’ of their times, it is a family member who has betrayed her. Social exclusion has arrived for those with the wrong ‘biography’ – even ‘re-education’. An ideology has come to dominance in a culture and it attempts to silence any dissenters. Its proponents are convinced of the irrefutable rightness of their worldview and march on the streets for it.
Yet in the middle of her trials, when she is ‘pressed on every side by troubles but is not crushed and broken’, Sathya keeps her eyes on the Lord’s love. The nourishment of faith is written into the narrative here, and she becomes a companion in suffering and hope for those who have walked or are walking a similar road.
The author’s heart in writing the novel has been to equip young Christians to stand up for their faith in a world that seeks to water down its message. I found it a very compelling read on a topic of tremendous poignancy.
By this reviewer:
August 5, 2023
I did enjoy this! Something a little different! This could be where the UK is headed if they follow on with the political madness I feel that was started by Mr Johnson! A nice ironic look at the treatment of people that believe or dare to believe something not accepted by the government. This is quite heavily Christian, so if this is not your thing... I will look for more by this writer as I found it an interesting read.
January 19, 2024
I could see this happening in America. Those who talk about Tolerance are the least tolerant of them all.
This is set in the UK in the future where Christianity is pretty much banned. I really enjoyed the story.
Being a Southerner from Florida it is hard to relate to the setting of the story.
This is set in the UK in the future where Christianity is pretty much banned. I really enjoyed the story.
Being a Southerner from Florida it is hard to relate to the setting of the story.
February 9, 2024
Sathya is a Christian in a time when the government is becoming increasingly hostile to anyone with contrary opinions - tolerating anything except intolerance. When she expresses herself too strongly, she finds herself the target of 'the T-team' - and betrayed by her own twin sister. Can she maintain her faith as things go rapidly downhill, to the point of facing danger? And worse, can she fight her own discouragement and doubts to hold on to God in times of crisis and beyond?
I don't read much dystopian fiction, but I do find it thought-provoking when books explore the possible - increasingly probable - future of being a Christian in an dangerously anti-Christian Western society. And this managed a more hopeful ending than most (if only for the main character), which I appreciated. The story left readers to ask how they might behave in similar situations, which is worth thinking about, but also made for a gripping read that was hard to put down. I'd love to see more of Sathya's future in a sequel - or maybe other family members or friends. The one thing I wasn't so keen on was the occasional (probably only half a dozen in the book) bad language, mostly blasphemy. Otherwise, I appreciated that it was kept clean and though Sathya goes through some rough times, there's nothing overly graphic.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I don't read much dystopian fiction, but I do find it thought-provoking when books explore the possible - increasingly probable - future of being a Christian in an dangerously anti-Christian Western society. And this managed a more hopeful ending than most (if only for the main character), which I appreciated. The story left readers to ask how they might behave in similar situations, which is worth thinking about, but also made for a gripping read that was hard to put down. I'd love to see more of Sathya's future in a sequel - or maybe other family members or friends. The one thing I wasn't so keen on was the occasional (probably only half a dozen in the book) bad language, mostly blasphemy. Otherwise, I appreciated that it was kept clean and though Sathya goes through some rough times, there's nothing overly graphic.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
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