1984

by George Orwell
1984 cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £3.99–£12.99 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: 2026-03-04
  • ISBN: 9781784876555
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2021-03-30
  • Formats: 218
  • Reviews: 4

George Orwell's 1984 is a dystopian novel that has left an indelible mark on literature and political thought. Set in a future where the Party controls every aspect of life, the story follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the Party who begins to question the system. The novel explores themes of surveillance, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth, making it a timeless critique of totalitarian regimes. /n/n This edition, marked by the sixtieth anniversary of its publication, includes an introduction by novelist Robert Harris, providing additional context and insight into the novel's enduring relevance. 1984 is not just a story; it's a warning and a call to vigilance in the face of oppressive power.

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.

The Guardian · Jane Smith · 2023-01-01
harrowing 4.00

1984 is a chilling dystopian novel that remains relevant today. The exploration of totalitarianism and surveillance is both timely and unsettling.

Jane Smith finds 1984 to be a chilling dystopian novel that remains remarkably relevant. They appreciate how the book explores themes of totalitarianism and surveillance, which feel particularly timely in today's world. The novel's depiction of a society under constant watch is both thought-provoking and unsettling. However, they note that the book's bleak tone and grim setting might be challenging for some readers.

Quick quotes

    A chilling dystopian novel that remains relevant today.

    The exploration of totalitarianism and surveillance is both timely and unsettling.

    The novel's depiction of a society under constant watch is both thought-provoking and unsettling.

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