Anthem by Ayn Rand

Alexa | Wall Intermediate School, Grade 8

Rating: ****

Imagine a world where your neighbors eat the same food as you do, your parents work the same hours that you work, and your friends read the same books as you do, all the time. Anthem by Ayn Rand describes exactly this world. All people living in this dystopian society are held accountable for their every mistake, including trying to be your own person. Your life here is chosen for you, with intentions of creating a completely equal life for everyone. This sounds great in theory, however, people lose touch with their own thoughts and sub-conscience, and start to believe this is best. Equality 7–2521 is the main character who’s personal feelings and will to express them are stronger than most. His life is filled with ups and downs, trials and failures. His strive for a new life grows as the book goes on. Meanwhile, Liberty 5-3000, a beautiful woman with golden hair, works in a field, taking note of Equality 7–2521’s actions. She agrees that this life they live is anti-climactic. After talking only once, they fall in love, attracted to each other’s passion for a change. After pages and pages building tension, Equality 7-2521 is left to make a decision; run away into the unknown land with the woman he adores, or spend his life being tortured in a dystopian world.

Anthem is a very short read, and includes advanced vocabulary. The references in the book are challenging and require constant attention to detail. The story is crafted with excellent scenarios, most of which the reader could have never imagined. I recommend this book to anyone who is searching for a brand new way of writing. I think most people would agree that Anthem by Ayn Rand is well deserving of it’s awards.