1984

by George Orwell
1984 cover
Good Books rating 3.88
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £4.50–£12.50 Hardback • £17.99–£29.50
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Format • £8.54–£18.04
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Technical
  • ID: 1263
  • Added: 2025-10-02
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781398805941
  • Publisher: Arcturus Publishing
  • Published: 2021-01-01
  • Formats: 200
  • Reviews: 4

1984 is a dystopian novel that delves into the terrifying world of absolute political tyranny and mind control. The story follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of 'the Party', who works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites history to fit the narrative of the ruling government. The novel presents a disturbing portrait of a society where even the most private thoughts are policed, and the past is constantly rewritten to serve the present. /n/n This modern classic, presented in a new paperback edition with a fresh cover design, is part of the Arcturus Essential Orwell series, celebrating one of the most important voices of the 20th century. The novel's exploration of themes such as surveillance, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth remains eerily relevant, making it a must-read for anyone interested in political philosophy and the power of language.

Reviews
Iowa State Daily · 2024-09-25
chilling 4.50

The novel is a great and necessary read, with its chilling portrayal of complete destruction and control.

This reviewer considers '1984' a great and necessary read, highlighting the chilling aspect of the book's portrayal of complete and utter destruction and control. They find the novel's themes particularly relevant and impactful, making it a must-read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of Orwell's exploration of these themes, which adds to the book's significance.

Quick quotes

    1984, undoubtedly a great novel, makes it necessary reading.

    The aspect I found most chilling about the book was the complete and utter destruction of the ...

    The novel's themes are particularly relevant and impactful.

Redbrick · Lizzie Smolenskaia · 2024-05-17
profound 4.50

The reviewer praises Orwell's complex use of language to present a totalitarian dystopia. They highlight the book's chilling and thought-provoking nature.

Lizzie Smolenskaia, a culture writer for Redbrick, delves into the intricate language and themes of '1984'. She appreciates how Orwell's writing style effectively conveys the oppressive and dystopian world of the novel. Smolenskaia finds the book to be a profound exploration of totalitarianism, with a chilling atmosphere that lingers long after the last page. She also notes the relevance of the book's themes to contemporary society, making it a timely and essential read.

Quick quotes

    Orwell's complex use of language to present a totalitarian dystopia is nothing short of masterful.

    The atmosphere created in the book is chilling and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

    The novel's exploration of totalitarianism is both relevant and timely, making it an essential read for our contemporary society.

Shelf Reflection · 2024-01-15
harrowing 2.00

The book is hard to read due to its themes of torture and brainwashing, creating a depressing and hopeless atmosphere. The reviewer acknowledges its impact but finds it emotionally challenging.

This reviewer found 1984 to be a deeply unsettling read due to its graphic depictions of torture and psychological manipulation. They appreciate the book's significance and its exploration of a dystopian world, but the constant despair and lack of hope made it a tough read. The atmosphere of oppression and control is palpable, making it a thought-provoking but emotionally draining experience.

Quick quotes

    It's a hard book to read because there is torture and brainwashing and it's just overall a depressing and hopeless book.

    The atmosphere of oppression and control is palpable.

    The constant despair and lack of hope made it a tough read.

Luke Harkness · 2021-06-11
brilliant 4.50

The book is praised for its intricate plot and immersive world-building. The reviewer appreciates the passive tone and detailed descriptions that contribute to the story's depth.

This reviewer highly praises 1984 for its compelling plot and immersive world-building. They appreciate the passive tone and extensive descriptions that create a rich and detailed environment. The book's exploration of themes like rebellion and imprisonment is seen as masterful, making it a standout work in dystopian fiction. The reviewer finds the narrative engaging and thought-provoking, highlighting its timeless relevance.

Quick quotes

    This book is all about the plot. The book is written in a very passive tone – there are many pages of description and world-building.

    A masterpiece of rebellion and imprisonment where war is peace freedom is slavery and Big Brother is watching.

    The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, highlighting its timeless relevance.

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