Judy Lindow answers “Why do people rate this book so high? ...”

Wilma asked this question about 1984:

Why do people rate this book so high? Surely I am missing something.

Judy Lindow It's a jarring and shockingly prophetic read (it was published over 70 years ago). It's sad, bleak, and mean and it should be mandated reading for eve…moreIt's a jarring and shockingly prophetic read (it was published over 70 years ago). It's sad, bleak, and mean and it should be mandated reading for everyone on the planet right now. The author's dystopian world captures the gruesome reality of surveillance and propaganda in a totalitarian state. It's pretty rare to find a solid 5-star novel with such a coincidental and relevant narrative. Ironically, I read this in 1984, almost 40 years ago. My supervisor had given it to me on my first day of work as recommended reading. It meant very little to me at the time. I was glad I'd read it - but at the time it sat squarely on the table of classics that are required reading. It's revelatory now, proving again that making meaning is why we read.(less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more