1984

By: George Orwell

Narrated by: Theo Solomon

One of the most celebrated classics of the twentieth century, this cautionary tale of a man trapped under the gaze of an authoritarian state is more relevant now than ever before.

“Thoughtcrime was not a thing that could be concealed for ever. You might dodge successfully for a while, even for years, but sooner or later they were bound to get you.”

Winston Smith works in the Ministry of Truth—or Minitrue as it is called in Newspeak—where he alters newspapers and reports to follow the arbitrary dictates of Big Brother’s propaganda. Beneath his outward conformity, however, Winston dreams of sharing his treasonable thoughts and breaking through the loneliness in which he lives.

Thus he takes his first dangerous steps, writing a diary of his doubts and then falling in love with a woman of the Party, the beautiful and brave Julia. They know their love is doomed, but Julia says, “They can make you say anything—anything—but they can’t make you believe it.”

But in Oceania, there is no possibility of solidarity, rebellion, or love—and the Party can reach anywhere.

First published in 1949, this disturbing novel that George Orwell wrote during a time of great social and political unrest centers on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of people and behaviors within society.

This classic of dystopian fiction contributed new words that became part of common English usage, including Big Brother, doublethink, newspeak, and thoughtcrime. The adjective "Orwellian" has come to mean government deception, surveillance, and misleading terminology.

Cover illustration & Design by Derek Anderson and Joel Anderson. © Anderson Design Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Licensed by Anderson Design Group.

©1949 Harcourt Brace and Company. © renewed 1977 by Sonia Brownell Orwell (P)2024 Blackstone Publishing

Narrator ruined the book

The narrators voicing of characters besides Winston (and even Winston at parts) was absolutely atrocious. It was very hard to listen to.

This writing seems so much like today’s world. We are going down the same path.

This book was one which was predicting the future of mankind and has indeed contains some of the very things happening today. The language has changed to be at times unable to be understood. The speech of the young communicating on text messages is one example, the governmental agency aconimes another.

Cautionary Classic

Story is a warning against authoritarianism with concepts still relevent today (especially in the US)(writing this is 2025). Narration is also on point. Definitely recommend a listen.

Enlightening story reflective of current times.

George Orwell shows us the dangers of socialism and communism in a society that allows their government to grow out of control.

On my mind 24/7

Absolutely one of those type of books that will have me thinking about forever. For the year it was written it is quite applicable within different eras and circumstances in life which really makes you think. Highly recommend this book.

1984

A very well told story about a dismal and dystopian future. Mr Orwell shines brightly

Knowledge is Power

I liked this. I loved the reader’s voice, and the story overall. I’ve had the physical version for a while but being able to listen to the audiobook during my long work commute was so much better! George Orwell’s writing creates such a vivid picture of what’s happening throughout the story, would honestly read (listen to) again.

Haunting forewarning

Haunting forewarning written in its own time. How much more disturbing that parts are applicable 30-40 years after the fall of the USSR. The narrative is almost cinematic, I could see this on stage or screen. The protagonist’s perspective is hopeful yet damning. What makes it such a classic is the ability to draw out universal truths into a vaguely familiar storyline.

Prophetic

The prophetic nature of this book is astounding. A must read. Great story. We must keep our eyes open and not go through life blindly.

Amazing

This was my first audio book, and oh boy, did I pick a good one. Narrator spoke the words with perfect emotion and inflection. Loved it.