1984

'If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself.'

Often ranked as one of the greatest twentieth century novels of all time, Orwell's 1984 is a prime example of political dystopian fiction at its very best.

Winston Smith works in the Ministry of Truth, rewriting newspapers and reports to distort history and adhere to the arbitrary dictates of Big Brother – the leading political force in Oceania. However, beneath his outward conformity, Winston has profound reservations about Big Brother's authoritarian regime. Before long, he begins the unthinkable and writes a diary to escape Big Brother's tyranny: an act punishable by death. Finding an ally in the brave and beautiful Julia, Winston's resolve to resist Big Brother is strengthened, and they seek to join forces with an opposing political party. But in Oceania, there is little room for solidarity, rebellion or love, and Big Brother, it seems, knows all.

First published in 1949 at a time of great social and political unrest, 1984 is widely considered ahead of its time, remaining acutely relevant to this day. This edition is brilliantly narrated by Hugh Kermode.

George Orwell is the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair (1903 – 1950). He was a British novelist, essayist, poet and critic, most famous for his novels Animal Farm and 1984. Often regarded of one of the fiercest social and political commentators of his day, his works remain studied and read through generations.