This is an incredible social commentary that absolutely everyone should read. Bradbury's translation of real-world events and their implications from present to page is uncanny and haunting. Full of timeless truths that seem even more applicable now than they were then, Fahrenheit 451 is a compelling work and a must-read. ( )

I first read this book (as most of us did) in high school. At the time, we were taught that it was a remarkable achievement and a literary masterpiece. Upon returning to Bradbury's novel, I must say that I am somewhat underwhelmed. The book isn't bad by any means, but it does not live up to the literary greatness that I remember from 12 years ago. Allow me to explain...I have this theory that Fahrenheit 451 is one of the last books most people ever read. Along with 1984, Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby, and a couple of works by Vonnegut, Fahrenheit is a stock novel for high-school English classes (I'm sure there are others, but I think everyone read at least one of the aforementioned). The book is political without being reactionary, written in a simple and direct prose, and it lacks the complex plot-points that characterize other notable works. In point of fact, Fahrenheit 451 is a great, great book for introducing adolescent readers to literature. But...People graduate from high-school and (for the majority) go on to study science or business or to enter the work-force, never again to have anything but the most cursory of experiences with the great novels. In short, Fahrenheit 451 is one of the last great books that (most) people ever read. And if you doubt me, just try to find any book you read in high-school at the airport bookstore. So, that being said, and the shrill accusations of literary elitism already ringing in my ears, I love Fahrenheit 451. For each and every one of Bradbury's overwrought and bloated metaphors, I love this book--if only because it reminds me that at one point in almost everyone's life, they get to read at least a few good books. ( )

I just read this again recently with my daughter and was struck with just how timely it was. Of all the apocalyptic novels warning us of our possible futures Bradbury could not have been more right on. I am sorry Orwell ... it isn't Big Brother that will be the end of us it is out petty entertainments and refusal to drink deep of the intellectual life. Like Huxley, Bradbury is absolutely correct,it is the things we love that will be our end; not the monsters without, but those within. ( )

A difficult book to like mostly to do with Bradbury’s writing style, but one I read for the CBO’s bookclub. The themes explored were interesting but I wish it had been written in an easier style. Saying that, considering the book was written in the 50’s, it is eerily prescient. An unforgiving view of society as it now stands, suggesting that the vast majority of people are content to no longer question life but to accept what is force fed to them. The burning of books, becomes symbolic in removing the very thing we use to question society and our existence. ( )

Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury, reveals the changes of values and morals through a futuristic society. Owning and reading books in this society is illegal and censored by the government. Instead of coming to your house when there is an actual fire, firemen in Fahrenheit 451 are called to the job when books are found in someones home. The firemen are not meant to put out fires but rather start them. When books are found, they will burn the books along with the house. Instead of burying oneself in a good novel, people from this futuristic society are more worried about buying another movie screen to add to their theater of ignorance. This book shows how their government fears individuals becoming more superior than others. They believe that by burning knowledge, everybody will remain equal and no single person will excel higher than the other. I enjoyed reading this book because it shows us how society can be greatly influenced by government in an interesting way. My two favorite characters are Clarisse and Faber. They both have a lasting impression of Guy Montag and help him realize the importance of life and literature. This was one of my favorite books that I read in English class because I liked seeing how people reacted to Guy Montags' rebellious actions and I enjoyed following him throughout his journey and escape from this horrible society.