Dystopian novels are a popular genre, often set in the future and depicting a society that is oppressive and unfulfilling, with marginalized groups of people. A glimpse into what might happen if society adopts an adverse ideology.
Here are ten great dystopian novels that you should read before you die.
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1984
Orwell’s seminal work of literature is a story that is as relevant today as it was when it was first published. The story follows Winston Smith, a man who lives in a society where the government controls everything.
The government controls the media, the economy, and even the thoughts of its citizens. Winston is unhappy with this state of affairs and decides to rebel against the government. He starts a secret relationship with a woman named Julia.
The two of them plot to overthrow the government, but their plans are quickly discovered. Winston is arrested and sent to prison, where he is tortured for his crimes.
The novel ends with Winston’s continued love for Julia, despite everything that has happened to him. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in dystopian literature.
Fahrenheit 451
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is a classic dystopian novel that has been widely read since its publication in 1953. The novel tells the story of a future society where books are outlawed and critical thinking is discouraged.
Fahrenheit 451 is set in a world where the government controls everything and books are seen as a threat to society. The main character, Guy Montag, is a fireman who burns books for a living. However, as he begins to read the books he is supposed to be destroying, he starts to question the government’s rules.
Fahrenheit 451 is a thought-provoking novel that makes its readers question the importance of critical thinking and freedom of speech. The book has been banned in many schools and libraries because of its controversial content. However, it remains one of the most popular dystopian novels of all time.
The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a dystopian novel that has become extremely popular in recent years. The story is set in a future society where women are treated as property and are not allowed to read or write. They are forced to live inbuffer zones and their sole purpose is to reproduce.
The novel follows the story of a handmaid named Offred. She is one of the few remaining women who can still bear children. She is assigned to the home of a high-ranking official and his wife, who is unable to have children of her own. Offred must live under their rule and submit to their will.
The Handmaid’s Tale is a fascinating look at a potential future society. It is eye-opening and chilling, and it will leave you thinking about its implications long after you finish reading it.
Brave New World
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley is a classic dystopian novel that has been praised for its prescient take on the future of society. The novel is set in a world where the government controls everything and the citizens are kept in a state of perpetual happiness by means of drugs and propaganda. Although the book was published over 80 years ago, it remains relevant today and is often considered one of the best dystopian novels ever written.
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Published in 1924, this is one of the earliest novels to explore issues related to society and how it might be changed from an imagined future utopia. After some discussion on the merits of pre-emptive change or doing nothing in response to impending problems, D-503 (Zamyatin) decides that the welfare and continuance of his race is the most important thing.
The Children of Men
Children of Men by P. D. James is a dystopian novel that was first published in 1992. The novel is set in a future world where humanity has become infertile and is facing extinction. The story follows the life of a man named Theo Faron, who becomes involved in a resistance movement that is fighting against the government’s oppressive regime.
The novel has been praised for its realistic portrayal of a future world that is facing an apocalypse. It is a fast-paced and thrilling read that will keep you hooked until the very end.
The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games is a dystopian novel by Suzanne Collins that was published in 2008. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a government-run event called the Hunger Games forces children to compete against each other in a fight to the death.
The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in the Hunger Games. Katniss must use all her skills and strength to survive the games and defeat her opponents.
The novel was an instant success, selling over 26 million copies in its first year. It was praised for its fast-paced plot, strong characters, and exploration of themes like survival, violence, and power.
The novel was adapted into a highly successful film franchise, with the first movie released in 2012. If you’re looking for a gripping dystopian read, The Hunger Games is definitely one of the best.
Divergent
Divergent is a popular dystopian novel that has been made into a movie. The story is set in a future society where people are divided into different factions based on their personality. The protagonist, Beatrice, is born into the Abnegation faction but she later discovers that she is Divergent, meaning she does not fit into any one faction. This makes her a target for the government, and she must go on the run to save her life.
Divergent is an exciting story with plenty of action and suspense. It is well-written and engaging, making it impossible to put down. If you enjoy dystopian novels, then you will definitely enjoy Divergent.
Ready Player One
Ready Player One is a science fiction novel by Ernest Cline. The novel is set in the year 2045 and follows the story of Wade Watts, a teenage boy who spends most of his time in the virtual world of the OASIS.
Wade Watts is a teenager living in the slums of Oklahoma City in the year 2045. The world is a very different place than it is today. The majority of the population spend their time in the virtual world of the OASIS, where they can be anyone they want to be and do anything they want to do.
Wade’s life changes forever when he learns about the Easter egg hidden inside the OASIS that will grant its finder an enormous fortune. Wade becomes obsessed with finding the Easter egg and soon finds himself pitted against powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to find it first.
Ready Player One is a fast-paced, action-packed novel that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. If you are a fan of dystopian novels or science fiction, this is one book you cannot afford to miss.
Year One
Nora Roberts’ Year One is a dystopian novel that has been captivating readers since it was first published in 2016. The novel is set in a world that has been ravaged by a deadly pandemic. The story follows the journey of two survivors, Lanore and Aden, as they search for a safe haven.
Year One is a fast-paced and thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Roberts’ vivid descriptions of the post-apocalyptic world are both harrowing and captivating. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to root for them as they try to survive in this new world.
If you’re looking for a dystopian novel that will keep you entertained from beginning to end, be sure to add Year One to your reading list.