1984 by George Orwell

Dylan | Freehold High School, Grade 12

Rating: ****

George Orwell’s dystopian novel, 1984, follows the story of Winston Smith. Winston is a low ranking member of the ruling Party in the country of Oceania. In the book, the Party controls all aspects of life, from what people can read, to what they can say, to what they can think. Winston is frustrated by Big Brother, the Party’s leader, and the Party’s constant monitoring. This book focuses on the themes of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and mass media control.

I enjoyed reading this book. It serves as a commentary on the role of government in society and I like Orwell’s writing style. The book explores its ideas in great detail, showing what could happen if governments are too powerful and begin oppressing their people. As a dystopian novel, this book is very gloomy, so prepare for that when you read it. In my opinion, the novel is really interesting. It is regarded as a literary classic for a good reason.

Xitlaly | Raritan High School, Grade 11

Rating: ****

“1984” is a chaotic literary masterpiece which was completed in 1949 by George Orwell. The novel portrays the story of a destroyed dystopian society which is heavily controlled by the government. The oppressing government maintains control at all times and limits even the slightest bit of rebellion detected. The story depicts Winston’s journey as he fights to maintain his identity regardless of the obstacles and challenges the government provides him to shut down any acts of rebellion. Along his side, Julia contributes to Winston's plan to escape the government. However, with the constant surveillance the government holds, trust is a dangerous thing, especially when losing your identity is a part of the gamble at hand. Although someone can fight for themselves, there comes a certain point of defeat, follow the story to see whether Winston successfully defeated the oppressing government or falls into the trap they created by losing himself in this whirlwind of events.

I enjoyed reading the book as it made me wonder of the possibilities in life and how things could turn out. More specifically, I enjoyed the author's perception of the future because it could still become a reality. Reading this book was slightly eye-opening as it is such a strange concept to think that even in the 1900s, people were as concerned over the government's control as today. The parallel in the story with today was so fascinating and a slight caution everyone should maintain. Overall, it is a great book that makes the reader question many things with the future while enjoying the story.