An Analysis of Harry Turtledove’s Best and Worst Works in Alternate History

Harry Turtledove is a renowned author in the alternate history genre, known for his intricate storytelling and innovative takes on historical events. Among his numerous works, certain novels stand out as notable examples of his prowess, while others fall short of expectations. This article delves into Turtledove's best and worst works in the alternate history genre, offering insights based on widely recognized assessments and personal preferences.

Best Works

How Few Remain - In this work, the author approaches the Spanish-American War of 1898 with a fresh perspective, leading to a surprising outcome. The novel tells the story of Basil Argyros, a character who deals with the consequences of an altered history. This book is a prime example of Turtledove's ability to weave complex narratives and deep character development.

Supervolcano Series - Although some of the series can be lengthy and detailed to a fault, the Supervolcano series is particularly noteworthy. The premise is compelling, with the cataclysmic eruption of the Yellowstone supervolcano resulting in a catastrophic collapse of society. The series provides a chilling look at how a catastrophic event could drastically alter the course of global history.

Worldwar Series - Perhaps one of Turtledove's most acclaimed series, the Worldwar series dives into a second World War with unexpected alien invaders. The intricate details of the battles, the political maneuverings, and the cultural impacts are fantastically executed, creating a rich and immersive alternate history universe. This series has captured the imaginations of many readers and critics alike.

North and South - This work reimagines the American Civil War by casting the Confederacy as the underdog. The story is a masterclass in how a well-researched and imaginative retelling can breathe new life into familiar historical events. Turtledove's attention to detail and innovative ideas make this series stand out as one of his finest.

Worst Works

The United States of Atlantis Series - While the premise of this series sounds intriguing, the execution falls short. It reads more like a history textbook with names and places changed, lacking the engaging storytelling and character development that Turtledove is known for. The series fails to capture the reader's imagination and interest.

The Man with the Iron Heart - Despite being heralded as one of Turtledove's best, this novel follows a German partisan in occupied America after the atom bomb. While the premise is compelling, the story lacks the depth and complexity found in his other works. The characters are often one-dimensional, and the narrative can feel disjointed.

The Joe Steele Series - This series is criticized for its lackluster execution. Joe Stalin as a young man in America is an interesting concept, but the portrayal falls flat. The premise that Stalin's tendencies as a leader are primarily shaped by nature rather than nurture is debated, making the character less interesting and the series somewhat unengaging.

The War That Came Early - Although the early volumes of this series are praised, the later volumes experience a dip in quality, with the action becoming less compelling and the plot dragging. Turtledove's genius in crafting detailed and engaging narratives is somewhat diminished in its later instalments.

Overall, Harry Turtledove's body of work in alternate history represents a remarkable journey through time and imagination. While some novels push the boundaries of storytelling and historical perspective, others may fall short due to less engaging or overly complex narratives. Turtledove's ability to captivate readers with innovative historical scenarios and deep character development remains a testament to his standing as a leading voice in this genre.