This thesis explores a novel’s potential transformations when adapted into the easy-reader format. In early 2021, two distinct easy-reader adaptations of George Orwell’s 1984 were published, accompanied by a new translation of the original full-length version. This analysis primarily seeks to study whether the theme of surveillance undergoes alteration in the easy- reader adaptations, potentially becoming stricter or facilitating a more nuanced interpretation. A notable difference in length among the three versions was observed; when compared as audiobooks at a consistent speed (words per minute), their durations are as follows: the original text: 10 hours and 7 minutes, adapted text 1 by Book Publisher Hedvig: 2 hours and 9 minutes, and adapted text 2 by Vilja Publisher: 33 minutes.

Employing comparative close reading and drawing on narratological theory, this study is inspired by the distinctions between round and flat characters, as discussed by E.M. Forster, Maria Nikolajeva, and Mieke Bal. Regarding the theme of surveillance, the thesis concludes that the adaptations do not exhibit as drastic changes as one might anticipate. Analysis of the characters’ transformations in response to surveillance reveals that their portrayal becomes harsher and more rugged in the easy-reader versions compared to the original text. Nevertheless, the shortest adapted text maintains the closest resemblance to the original.