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Fahrenheit 451

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1953

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Book Brief

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Ray Bradbury

Fahrenheit 451

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1953
Book Details
Pages

194

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dystopian City • Future

Publication Year

1953

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

890L

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Super Short Summary

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is a dystopian novel set in a future society where books are banned, and "firemen" burn them to suppress intellectual freedom. The protagonist, Guy Montag, is a fireman who becomes disillusioned with his society after meeting his curious neighbor Clarisse and witnessing a woman choose to die with her books. Montag's journey toward enlightenment and rebellion against oppressive censorship leads him to join a group of intellectuals preserving literary works by memorizing them. The book includes themes such as the impact of censorship on society and the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. Contains references to death by suicide and drug use.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

2,566,577 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 is celebrated for its compelling dystopian narrative and poignant social commentary on censorship and conformity. Praised for its rich, imaginative prose and enduring themes, some critique it for underdeveloped characters and a somewhat dated portrayal of technology. Nonetheless, it remains a profound and thought-provoking work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fahrenheit 451?

A reader who enjoys Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury is likely fascinated by dystopian and speculative fiction, appreciates critiques of censorship, and values profound societal reflections. Similar audiences might also enjoy George Orwell’s 1984 or Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World for their explorations of control, freedom, and humanity.

4.3

2,566,577 ratings

72%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Guy Montag

The protagonist, a 30-year-old fireman with black hair who initially enjoys burning books. His encounters with Clarisse McClellan cause him to question his life and society, eventually leading him to rebel against the government.

Montag’s boss and the novel’s antagonist. As the fire chief, he defends the book-burning system despite his extensive knowledge of literature, using his rhetorical skills to manipulate and challenge Montag.

Montag’s wife, who spends her days absorbed in technology. She represents a society that values superficiality and is disconnected from reality, ultimately reporting Montag for possessing books.

A retired English teacher who becomes Montag’s mentor. Initially hesitant, he supports Montag’s quest for knowledge, helping him connect with literature through his understanding of its value.

Leader of the "Book People," a group of intellectuals. He becomes Montag’s mentor after Montag flees the city, teaching him techniques to preserve and pass on literary knowledge.

Montag’s 17-year-old neighbor, who prompts him to rethink his life and society. A curious and free-spirited individual who enjoys nature and meaningful conversations, serving as Montag’s initial catalyst for change.

Friends of Mildred who visit the Montags. They lead shallow lives dominated by technology and social conventions, reacting strongly when confronted with literature’s emotional depth.

Book Details
Pages

194

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dystopian City • Future

Publication Year

1953

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

890L

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