1984

by George Orwell
1984 cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £4.50–£12.50 Hardback • £17.99–£18.99
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Format • £8.54–£17.09
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Technical
  • ID: 1263
  • Added: 2025-10-02
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781398805941
  • Publisher: Arcturus Publishing
  • Published: 2021-01-01
  • Formats: 178
  • Reviews: 4

1984 is a seminal work of dystopian fiction that explores the themes of totalitarianism, surveillance, and the manipulation of truth. The novel follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of 'the Party', who works at the Ministry of Truth and secretly rebels against the omnipresent government led by the mysterious Big Brother. This modern classic presents a disturbing vision of a world where individuality is crushed, and the past is continuously altered to fit the narrative of the ruling party. The new paperback edition features a fresh cover design, making it accessible to new readers while celebrating George Orwell's enduring legacy.

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.

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.

Joe's Notes Blog · 2020-12-20
compelling 4.00

The book is recommended for those interested in political philosophy or dystopian fiction. It offers a compelling exploration of rebellion and imprisonment.

The reviewer recommends 1984 to anyone interested in political philosophy or dystopian fiction. They find it a masterpiece of rebellion and imprisonment, with themes that are both timeless and relevant. The book's exploration of a society under constant surveillance and control is particularly compelling. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the political and philosophical questions raised, making it a must-read for those interested in these themes.

Quick quotes

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

    I recommend it to anyone that is interested in political philosophy or fiction set in a dystopian future.

    The book's exploration of a society under constant surveillance and control is particularly compelling.

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