Julia by Sandra Newman

Set in the dystopian world of 1984, Julia Worthing is a mechanic in the Fiction Department at the Ministry of Truth in the nation of Oceania, ruled by the ultra-totalitarian Party and its enigmatic leader, Big Brother. Living in a world perpetually at war, Julia has always been a loyal citizen, cynically obedient to the regime’s slogans while secretly breaking the rules when convenient. However, her encounter with Winston Smith sets off a chain of events that challenges her beliefs and forces her to confront the harsh realities of her society. Through Julia’s eyes, Newman takes readers on a journey through Orwell’s iconic dystopia. Giving a fresh perspective and breathing life into Julia, she reveals unexpected depths in this familiar gray world.

Newman did a fantastic job, and I was pleased to find that her skillful execution made a reread of 1984 unnecessary. I was even more pleased to find that it made me want to give it a reread, with a set of new eyes. While Julia mirrors 1984 in language and tone, it delves even deeper into the concept of an inescapable future where 'like breeds like.' Subversive behavior becomes a direct response to authoritarianism, portraying a sense of hopelessness that suggests defeating the system requires engaging in the same reprehensible acts. There is a certain undeniable delight in just how well Newman captures Orwell’s novel. She masterfully maintained that world while granting Julia her own agency and backstory, providing much-needed depth to a character who previously served only as a foil to Winston Smith. Julia's fully realized portrayal not only allows the novel to stand on its own but its existence only serves the original in companionable authenticity.

Audiobook, as narrated by Louise Brealey: Brealey did an amazing job, injecting and fulfilling the wry humor intended and necessary for Julia. Through the more gruesome parts, the mirroring of the original, and offering the necessary rigidity, Brealey made this experience superb.