sarahreadsaverylot 's review for:

Why Orwell Matters by Christopher Hitchens
4.0

An excellent introduction to the critical thought and reception surrounding Orwell's literary and political work. Criticism of the criticism, if you will. Hitchens demonstrates an impressive respect for Orwell the man and Orwell the writer and attempts to demystify and dismantle the aura surrounding him, though not without sounding like a bit of a dick. He writes with authority, insight, and no small measure of academic integrity, but as much as this book is about showcasing Orwell, it also ends up being about showcasing the snide remarks of a snide and audacious critic.

Personal favourite is Hitchens' look at the novels in the chapter 'Generosity and Anger'.