1984

Orwell, George.   1984.  New York: Harcourt Brace, 1949.

Audience:  High school 16+

Genre:  Science fiction, dystopian fiction.

Topics of Focus:  Totalitarianism, Dystopia, nationalism, censorship. 

Red Flags:  Sexual references, alcohol use.

“Thoughtcrime does not entail death; Thoughtcrime is death.”

This famous quote shows the nature of the book 1984, in which free thought, sex, or any other expression of individualism is punishable by death. Set in near-future London, Winston Smith, opposes the rules and begins to write a diary of his own. On an adventure into his own thought he comes across a woman named Julia who shares his interests. Under the regime of Big brother they find places to hide and have a secret love affair. They meet a man within the inner-party of the government who runs a secret operation trying to liberate human thought and join him in a quest for knowledge.

 I found this book very powerful and unique. The tone is very sinister and depressing but brings a new hope to those who have none. The rebellious nature of this novel strikes home and inspires very dangerous thoughts in its readers. This book will make you think in a very abnormal way. Although it will seem the norm is this sideways world where war is peace, freedom is slavery, and ignorance is strength. At its very best this novel will keep you up at night thinking of what the government has hidden from you and at its worst, it’s a great read. I highly recommend 1984 for all readers, especially those interested in science fiction.

Annotation by James Noyd