If you have never heard of big brother, then all you have to do is look around HMSA and think about how many cameras are constantly watching every move you make. Now imagine those cameras not just at school, but everywhere you go: in the streets, in your favorite restaurants, and even in your own home. This is the world George Orwell creates in his masterpiece 1984.

Throughout the novel, the reader follows Winston Smith as he attempts to rebel against the government’s intrusion, knowing full well that his rebellious nature will result in a painful death. But as the novel goes on, the true tragedy of the novel comes to be apparent. Winston fears being executed is because he committed the atrocity of having private thoughts written down within the confines a secret diary. Yet even worse, Winston commits treason against his country by merely wishing for a normal life where he can be happy.

While 1984 is clearly a depressing look into a totalitarian future, the harrowing images it provides serve as the embodiment of why governments and absolute power should be and are feared. The novel is a very rewarding read even at 17 AR points, yet the reading level of 8.9 may be restrictive for some readers.