10,000 books in-stock. Fast NZ-wide delivery

💕 Romance Sale | Shop Now

1984

The dystopian classic reimagined with cover art by Shepard Fairey
4.19 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 4,857,685 ratings, 126,785 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
1984 by George Orwell is a dystopian novel set in a totalitarian society controlled by the Party and its leader, Big Brother. The story follows Winston Smith, who works for the Party rewriting history but secretly despises the regime. His growing rebellion and quest for truth lead him into dangerous territory as he seeks freedom and individuality.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2300
Elsewhere:
$2600
OVERNIGHT DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are intrigued by dystopian societies, where personal freedom is crushed by a totalitarian regime. It delves into the themes of surveillance, propaganda, and the power of language, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in political or social change.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

1984

Winston Smith works for the Ministry of Truth in London, chief city of Airstrip One. Big Brother stares out from every poster, the Thought Police uncover every act of betrayal. When Winston finds love with Julia, he discovers that life does not have to be dull and deadening, and awakens to new possibilities.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

1984 by George Orwell is a gripping tale set in a dystopian future where the world is embroiled in perpetual war, pervasive government surveillance, and incessant public manipulation. The story unfolds in Airstrip One, formerly known as Great Britain, a province of the superstate Oceania. Here, the Party, led by the enigmatic and omniscient Big Brother, exerts absolute power over the populace, infiltrating every aspect of their lives.

The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a low-ranking member of the ruling Party who works at the Ministry of Truth, where his job is to alter historical records to fit the Party's propaganda. Despite the oppressive environment, Winston harbours rebellious thoughts and yearns for truth and freedom. When he embarks on a forbidden love affair with Julia, a fellow Party member, he begins to taste the joy and fulfillment that life has long denied him.

As Winston and Julia's bond deepens, they find themselves increasingly drawn toward subversive activities against the Party's brutal regime. There appears to be a glimmer of hope as they entertain the possibility of joining a secret resistance movement. However, in a society where the Thought Police tirelessly root out dissenters and where the fearsome Room 101 awaits those who dare to defy, the probability of survival is slim.

1984 is not just a novel but a stark warning about the dangers of totalitarianism. It explores themes of loyalty, truth, and the obliteration of individuality. Orwell's masterful narration and the chillingly plausible future it depicts have made it one of the most influential works of the 20th century, reflecting his deep understanding of the intricate dynamics of power and control.

Through his depiction of Winston's struggles against a regime that seeks to control not just actions but thoughts, Orwell demonstrates the unyielding human spirit and its insatiable quest for freedom. The novel's enduring relevance continues to resonate with contemporary readers, serving as a poignant reminder of the value of personal freedom in the face of oppressive governance.

Delve into 1984 to experience a world where control is absolute, and every facet of life is manipulated by a tyrannical regime that will stop at nothing to maintain its iron grip on power. The novel stands as a testament to Orwell's profound insights and remains a touchstone for discussions on surveillance, freedom, and the human condition.

Series: Penguin Essentials

View all

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

1984 is widely regarded as a masterful and essential read, praised for its relevance to modern history and extraordinary impact. Readers find it enthralling and frequently revisit it for its thought-provoking content, with many considering it one of the most significant novels of the twentieth century.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141036144

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 July 2008

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 111.0mm

Height: 181.0mm

Weight: 187g

Pages: 336

About the Author

Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), better known by his pen-name, George Orwell, was born in India, where his father worked for the Civil Service. An author and journalist, Orwell was one of the most prominent and influential figures in twentieth-century literature. His unique political allegory Animal Farm was published in 1945, and it was this novel, together with the dystopia of Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949), which brought him world-wide fame. His novels and non-fiction include Burmese Days, Down and Out in Paris and London, The Road to Wigan Pier and Homage to Catalonia.

Also by George Orwell

View all

More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Pick Ups

Auckland Pick Ups

We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.

Reviews from our customers