T for Tolerance
Bibliographic Information
Title: T for Tolerance: A YA dystopian novel (The Underground Passage, Book 1)
Author: Katherine Blessan
Publisher / Imprint: Blessan Publications
Publication / Release date: August 14, 2023
Format / Length: Paperback, 222 pages
ISBN: 1739423518 (ISBN‑10) / 9781739423513 (ISBN‑13)
Language: English
Dimensions: ~19.8 × 12.9 × 1.3 cm
Synopsis
Set in Britain, 2041, in a society where freedom of speech is no longer a legal right and the notion of tolerance has been subverted. The protagonist, Sathya, is a 17‑year‑old who speaks out her beliefs and is betrayed by her twin sister, leading to her rights being stripped. She must confront her doubts, resist oppressive forces (the ‘thought police’), and fight to hold onto truth and freedom.
Themes & Genre
Genre: Young Adult (YA), Dystopian
Subgenre / Elements: speculative, political / social commentary
Key themes include:
– The distortion of tolerance into oppression
– Freedom of speech and its suppression
– Identity, betrayal, faith, and moral courage
– The cost of truth, rebellion, and internal conflict
Origin story
Katherine Blessan conceived T for Tolerance during the COVID lockdowns, initially thinking of writing a refugee story then re-orienting it with a ‘reverse refugee’ idea: a citizen of a seemingly free nation forced to flee. The protagonist’s background echoes Blessan’s own family mix (Indian / white British) and faith perspective. The name “Sathya” means “truth.”
Buying options
Available in paperback and ebook / Kindle formats. Listed on multiple book‑retailer sites (Amazon, Walmart, Fruugo, World of Books).
Universal book link
https://mybook.to/5alVgP
To buy a signed book direct from the author:
https://katherineblessan.bigcartel.com/product/t-for-tolerance
Amazon: Universal link
Online retailer: The Great British Bookshop
It is the first in a series: The Underground Passage, Book 1. Book 2 Ripples of Rebellion will be published in 2026.
Critical Reception & Reviews
Goodreads listing includes reader reviews. The Book Dragon site gives a glowing summary and 5-star ranking. In interviews, the author emphasizes how it is intended to provoke reflection on free speech and the twisting of tolerance.
““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.” (The Book Dragon Review)
“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!” review by E. M. Carter (author of The Newland Trilogy)
Strengths & Unique Selling Points
– Tackles a timely and provocative concept: what happens when ‘tolerance’ is weaponized
– Blend of speculative dystopia + moral / faith dimension
– Strong, conflicted female YA protagonist
– Potential for series continuity (Book 1)
– Author’s background woven into the narrative
– For readers who enjoy dystopian / speculative YA with social commentary
Related Media
Podcast Interview: Ep. 51 — ‘Truth-Telling and Cancel Culture’
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep51-truth-telling-and-cancel-culture-with/id1451083978?i=1000641669102
