Nineteen Eighty-Four

by George Orwell
Nineteen Eighty-Four cover
Good Books rating 3.94
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £3.99–£9.99 Hardback • £10.99–£30.00 CD-Audio • £10.00–£25.00
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  • ID: 21
  • Added: 2025-08-10
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • Formats: 663
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
What's Good To Read · 2025-09-02
excellent 4.00

This retelling is praised as an excellent introduction to classic literature, particularly for readers hesitant about tackling complex novels.

The review highlights the value of this concise retelling in sparking interest in classic literature, especially for those who might be reluctant to pick up the original. It suggests that the adaptation retains the core themes and power of the original while making it more accessible and engaging to a wider audience. This approach helps new readers appreciate Orwell's work without feeling overwhelmed by its complexity.

Quick quotes

    This concise retelling of Nineteen Eighty-Four is an excellent way to garner an interest in classics novels that some readers may be reluctant to pick up.

    A great introduction to Orwell’s dystopian vision.

    It captures the essential themes in a more accessible format.

Real Reads · 2025-09-02
intriguing 4.25

The book is described as emotional, puzzling, surprising, and intriguing, with a strong appeal due to its unpredictability and depth.

The reviewer finds the book engaging because it evokes a wide range of emotions and keeps readers guessing with its surprising twists. They appreciate how the story challenges readers intellectually, making it more than just a typical dystopian novel. The emotional impact and complexity of the narrative stand out as key strengths, inviting readers to think deeply about the themes presented.

Quick quotes

    This book is emotional, puzzling, surprising and intriguing.

    I liked this book because you never know what is going to happen next.

    The story is quite intriguing and makes you think.

Redbrick · Lizzie de Lacy · 2024-05-17
profound 4.50

The book's complex use of language effectively portrays a chilling totalitarian regime. It is a powerful and thought-provoking read that highlights the dangers of unchecked power.

Lizzie de Lacy praises George Orwell's intricate use of language in Nineteen Eighty-Four, which she believes masterfully conveys the oppressive nature of a totalitarian society. She finds the novel to be a profound exploration of power, control, and the human spirit. The reviewer emphasizes that the book's relevance has not diminished over time, making it a crucial read for understanding the potential pitfalls of political extremism. De Lacy's analysis suggests that the novel's chilling portrayal of a dystopian future serves as a stark warning about the importance of individual freedom and the dangers of propaganda. The reviewer concludes that Nineteen Eighty-Four is a timeless piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.

Quick quotes

    George Orwell's complex use of language to present a totalitarian regime is both chilling and captivating.

    The novel's exploration of power and control is a profound and thought-provoking read.

    Nineteen Eighty-Four serves as a stark warning about the importance of individual freedom and the dangers of propaganda.

Shelf Reflection · 2024-01-15
depressing 3.00

The book is hard to read due to its themes of torture and brainwashing, making it a depressing and hopeless narrative. Despite its heaviness, it is a significant work of literature.

The reviewer at Shelf Reflection finds Nineteen Eighty-Four to be a challenging read due to its intense themes of torture and brainwashing, which contribute to a sense of hopelessness throughout the narrative. They acknowledge that the book's dark and depressing tone makes it difficult to read, but they also recognize its importance as a significant work of literature. The reviewer suggests that the novel's exploration of a dystopian society serves as a powerful commentary on the potential dangers of totalitarian regimes. Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, they believe that the book's message is crucial and continues to be relevant in today's political climate.

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 novel's exploration of a dystopian society serves as a powerful commentary on the potential dangers of totalitarian regimes.

    Despite the heaviness of the subject matter, the book's message is crucial and continues to be relevant in today's political climate.

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