Reviews with content warning for Fire/Fire injury - Fahrenheit 451

When I read this book, I couldn't help but wondering when it will be finished. The premise is unique—how books were seen as sins and how people just start burning books—but the words that are used in this book aren't enjoyable enough for me to read and keep a long span of attention. I keep realizing how I zoned out in the middle of reading each paragraph, wondering what is the real meaning behind each word.

This book is probably more suitable or enjoyable for you who like philosophical talks. If you're patient enough, the story gets a bit better at the end.

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lynxpardinus's review against another edition

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challenging dark reflective tense

4.5

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wvelociraptor's review against another edition

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Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

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annatan's review against another edition

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reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

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akvolcano's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

I’m glad that I’ve read this now, I doubt I’d have the same perspective if I read it in high school. I find it quite ironic and ignorant that the author claims that “minorities” are the ones destroying literature and thoughtfulness. That THEY would be and ARE the reason information censoring exists. When in current times, it is people who look and think like him, a rich white old man, who are the main source of people who like to censor stories written by and about minorities. He also thinks that complexity can only be created, exist, maintain, in an exclusionist and harmful environment. It is a shame he does not see the beautiful endless deep complexities in inclusivity and understanding and active listening and having empathy for others. He is missing out.
As for the book itself, I wish parts of the afterword was included in the book. I also wish that this book was longer….where it left off still feels like the backstory. I do enjoy the futuristic exploration! I also agree with placing high value on letting ourselves slowing down and giving us a chance to think and to feel. I would like to write down some quotes from this book!
I also find it ironic that this book has been banned on and off. I feel like it proves part of his point that it is more of so the thoughts and actions that happen after reading a book-that is more dangerous than the book itself. The power comes from people, books help with the process of preserving and sharing those ideas.
Overall, I am glad I finally read this book myself. I wouldn’t read it again, nor would I recommend it without heavy discussion, but it does paint a good picture. Oh and also-

The idea of people memorizing books, stories, history-is not original. It comes from Indigenous people and it comes from so many other cultures. But it doesn’t surprise me that credit is not given to the source of which gave him the idea to include it in the book

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lou_loo's review against another edition

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adventurous dark informative inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? N/A
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

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josiah17's review against another edition

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informative inspiring reflective tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

"Number one: Do you know why books such as this are so important? Because they have quality. And what does the word quality mean? To me it means texture. This book has pores. It has features. This book can go under the microscope. You'd find life under the glass, streaming past in infinite profusion."

This is a book everyone should try at some point. For publishing this in the 50s, Bradbury is remarkably exceptional at understanding the frightening possibilities of an advancing society. Censorship, severe disconnection, destructive technology, nuclear war, etc. He understands the risks of ongoing innovation and depicts that perfectly with this novel where technology has negatively influenced the idea of literature, reading, and the knowledge bound in books. In creating this situation in a futuristic dystopian society, Bradbury communicates the paramount important of reading and the necessity for conflicting thought gained through consuming literature, which is constructive and promotes creativity. Guy Montag is a great protagonist to follow and communicate these themes through as he gains an interest in books and the history of the world he lives in that led to the censorship he experiences.

This book is reflective, inspiring, and deals with some heavy ideas regarding society. Bradbury is a genius, and I love the themes he explores and prioritizes with his storytelling. Check this book out.

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