In my opinion a great introduction to the history of Catalonia during the Spanish Civil War, of the different factions involved. More than that, this book is a colourful and hugely entertaining account of Orwell and his wife's personal experiences during the conflict

Occasionally, it's very funny. At one moment he is describing chasing a fascist soldier in the dark with a bayonet, and the image in your head is like something from a Tom & Jerry cartoon. Orwell comes across as charming and humble, and like a shrewd observer. Based on this book and from what I've read of his life, he's a historical figure who I would love to meet