Books v. Cigarettes

by George Orwell

First published 2008

In the totalitarian state of Oceania, Winston Smith works for the Ministry of Truth, altering historical records to match the Party's current narrative. Every citizen lives under constant surveillance by Big Brother, with thought crimes punishable by complete erasure. When Winston meets Julia, a fellow Party member who shares his quiet hatred of the regime, they begin a dangerous love affair. Their stolen moments of intimacy and rebellion become a direct challenge to the Party's absolute control. But in a world where loyalty is monitored and independent thought is crushed, their relationship becomes a fatal risk that could destroy them both.

Genres: fiction, dystopia, 20th-century, political-thriller

Vibes: dark, intimate, thought-provoking

Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forbidden-love, rebellion

Setting: Oceania

Period: 20th-century

126 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Penguin

Content warnings: violence

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