1984

[Editors' Note: This audiobook is not available in the U.S.]--Even if you read this dystopian novel in school, you will be shocked when you hear it performed today. Peter Noble's skillful narration of the classic story of government oppression could not be more frightening. The lack of sound effects or other voices adds to the terrible dread and soul-numbing fear that protagonist Winston Smith endures. Noble's somber tone brings out the desperation of the story, even in the midst of hope. Smith lives in a future in which lies are truth, black is white, and peace is war. People are trained not to trust what they see and hear, but to trust what the ever-present overseer called Big Brother tells them. Written as a cautionary tale after WWII, 1984 is even more applicable today. M.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2022]