1984

1984 by George Orwell

Summary: The classic story of a society in which all citizens are watched by Big Brother, and are only allowed to believe what The Party wants them to believe.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Comments: Interesting story, dragged on at times. A much better essay than a novel. Incredibly depressing with no hope at the end. Still, I'm glad I read it, and think everyone should read it before they die.

Princess of the Midnight Ball

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

Summary: A re-telling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Comments: I don't particularly care for fairy tales, but this was one of the best I have read. I loved the story, was drawn in by the writing, and would recommend it to anyone.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

Summary: The son of a German soldier makes friends with a boy on the other side of the fence, never knowing that the fence separates a concentration camp from the rest of Poland.

Rating: 3.5 out 5

Comments: Quick read, good, interesting story, but definitely some criticisms. I enjoyed the fresh take on the Holocaust, and the way the tone of the story was heavy without being overly depressing. I didn't care for the complete naivety of the main character, but could accept it as important to the integrity of the story. I would recommend it, but don't expect it to be a life changing book.