1984 by George Orwell

1984 by George Orwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Slightly boring, but did cause me to think about this dystopian society and what could be possible.

What is “freedom” really? That’s the thought I had throughout this novel. I also wondered how so many people would allow our current “freedoms” to be taken away. I think that people, at their cores, wouldn’t stand for that much control (that they’re aware of). I know that we are monitored now, but it’s not so blatantly obvious that we see it every day in our homes.

So let’s examine the word freedom. Winston says in the novel that freedom is the right to say 2 + 2= 4 and even that is taken away from him. The dictionary says freedom is:

1. the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint.
2. exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc.
3. the power to determine action without restraint.
4. political or national independence.
5. personal liberty, as opposed to bondage or slavery: a slave who bought his freedom.

But can we listen to what the dictionary says a word means if even that is being controlled? Can we define something when the government says it is something else? It is so easy to be controlled that we don’t realize we’re being controlled.

1984 causes people to think about society and politics and what we allow to be done (or what we ignore). Every question I have leads to another question…. which is frustrating if, like me, you prefer to read and enjoy instead of questioning each part of the book you read. I don’t like questions, it reminds me too much of my college English classes.



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The Shining by Stephen King

The Shining by Stephen King

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I loved this novel! King really makes the Overlook come to life. From the freaky hedge animals to the creepy ghosts in the hotel, the Overlook becomes it's own character. As I read I was constantly on the edge of my seat wondering what it was going to do next. I loved the characters even though they each annoyed me at some point.

I have seen both the movie and the mini series and enjoyed them both, but seeing Jack free fall into insanity is something you just can't get from a movie. His irrational thoughts (whether caused by the hotel or not... you're never REALLY sure) and actions gave me the creeps and throughout the book I wanted to yell at Wendy and Danny to just leave already.

I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good scare and a lot of suspense!



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I am Legend by Richard Matheson

I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I enjoyed this story. It really got into the psychological aspect of being left alone in a horrifying environment. There were some nerve racking scenes but I really liked getting inside the head of the character of Robert Neville. His fear and despair and yet, hope, made it a good read. For being written in 1954 (based in the 70's) it was surprisingly still modern. You didn't have the feeling like it was that much in the past.

Nothing like the movie, but I would definitely recommend it.



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