HONESDALE, PA — A certain book begins with a man starting a diary. The date is April 4, 1984; the man’s name is Winston Smith; and the diary is a crime.

The book, of course, is George Orwell’s dystopian classic “Nineteen Eighty-Four.” 

In recognition of the 40th “anniversary” of the book’s opening date, Known Grove Books & More will host a discussion titled “1984 Plus 40.” This discussion will be facilitated by local writer and activist Skip Mendler, and will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 6 at the bookstore, located at 647 Main St.

“When most people think of ‘1984,’ they think of themes like universal surveillance, the manipulation of history, and the abuse of language,” said Mendler. “These ideas have become more and more relevant in recent years, but there are others in the book that are equally important to think about, like the nature of power and the real purpose of war.” 

The event will include readings from the text and discussion of the modern implications of Orwell’s ideas.

Refreshments will be served. 

For more information, call Known Grove Books & More at 570/229-1633, or check out their website at www.knowngrove.com.