Fahrenheit 451 is a 1953 dystopian novel by American writer Ray Bradbury.[4] It presents an American society where books have been personified and outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found.[5] The novel follows Guy Montag, a fireman who becomes disillusioned with his role of censoring literature and destroying knowledge.

In the distant future, Guy Montag works as a fireman whose job is to burn forbidden books and the houses where they are hidden. One night after work, Montag meets his new neighbor Clarisse, a free-spirited teenage girl. Clarisse's independent thinking makes Montag question his life and happiness.

When Montag returns home, he finds his wife Mildred has overdosed on sleeping pills. He calls for medical help and two EMTs pump her stomach. After they leave, Montag overhears Clarisse and her family talking about their illiterate society. Montag is troubled by Clarisse's radical ideas and his wife's near-death.

Over the next few days, Clarisse meets Montag on his walks home. Her simple interests make her an outcast among peers, and she's forced into therapy. Montag looks forward to their meetings, but one day Clarisse disappears.