History, as we know it, is mostly contained in books. We can’t go back into history to the exact times of great rulers and horrible famines. We must travel there by books. Now think about the world where books are not a thing anymore. 

This might be a pleasure for some; but for others however, it’s not. This is what one of Ray Bradbury’s most famous books, Fahrenheit 451 brings to its readers. 

In a dystopian society, books are banned, and thinking is outlawed. If there are books found in someone’s house, the “firemen” will come and burn the books and the house that contains them. The owners of these books would go to jail. Some would even sacrifice themselves for these precious books. 

The story follows the life of one particular “fireman” named Guy Montag. He finds pleasure in burning books, making them black and charred with his kerosene spitting flamethrower. 

Throughout his story, Guy goes through an identity crisis. When he meets a mysterious girl, Clarisse McClellan, she changes his perspective on those multipage-history-filled books. . 

Fahrenheit 451, has won two awards. The Prometheus Hall of Fame Award, in 1984, and the Retro Hugo Award for Best Novel in 2004. 

Fahrenheit 451 is a book that is burning to be read. Although Fahrenheit 451 contains lots of metaphors, similes, and interesting language, which can be a bit challenging to read for younger audiences. Best for YA readers who love books about dystopian societies, and adventure.