Saturday Matinee: History This Week

In *Brainiac*, Ken Jennings chronicles the history and culture of trivia, from the coffeehouses of 17th-century London to the modern-day trivia subculture in America. The book includes his experiences on *Jeopardy*, interactions with various trivia enthusiasts, and a detailed look at the rise and fall of trivia fads over the centuries. Jennings also delves into philosophical questions about the nature and significance of trivia, making the book a thoughtful and lively exploration of a unique subculture.

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.