Animal Farm
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Rating
4 stars – Orwell’s classic explores utopia and corruption through the eyes of farmyard animals
Description
It is the history of a revolution that went wrong – and of the excellent excuses that were forthcoming at every step for the perversion of the original doctrine
Why did you choose to read this book?
My attempts to read a classic for the Classics Challenge have so far failed – so I thought I’d give this novella a try!
The Book Review
I can’t actually believe that I’ve never read this book before – my brother must have studied it at school which is how I come to have a copy gathering dust on a shelf!
If you are one of the minority of people who hasn’t read it either then I would recommend you do. It’s an excellent allegory; using farmyard animals who overthrow their humans in search of utopia to show that such a state of equality is impossible to achieve – because of the corruptive influence of the very power required to necessitate it.
Animal Farm starts with a dream and a suggestion of a better life with Major, the old boar, gathering the animals to share a dream he has had and to inform then that one day animals will form a Rebellion and overthrow the human race.
The Rebellion comes sooner than anticipated when the animals seize their chance to rid themselves of Mr Jones and his workers, and in the early days it seems that such a utopia is possible. But soon the pigs promote themselves to leaders and the corruption commences. As the months turn into years Napolean slowly exerts his influence; twisting what was once the truth and using his trusty spindoctor to ensure the animals forget what was agreed by all, until eventually no one can tell the difference between the man and the pig.
Have you reviewed this book?
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Watch a short Barnes & Noble video about George Orwell’s Animal Farm
7 Responses to “Book Review | Animal Farm by George Orwell”
Yup, I’m in that minority.
I do have it on the shelf, though, just waiting. Thanks for the review!
Trishs last blog post..Tess of the D’Urbervilles – Thomas Hardy
I really enjoyed this book – I had to read it for a college assignment several years ago. It really makes you look at the societial classes of a utopia. Nice Review!
Bobbi’s Book Nooks last blog post..Are You There Vodka, It’s Me Chelsa
I had to read this book for my history class this year, and it is one of the only classics I’ve had to read for school that I’ve enjoyed.
hopes last blog post..Interview with Melissa de la Cruz!
I enjoyed this one a lot too (though not quite as much as 1984). It’s been so long, though…maybe it’s time for a re-read.
Nymeths last blog post..Three Challenges Completed
I liked this one. It is quite a frightening book but it gives you such a great insight into how corruption occurs.
Kim Ls last blog post..Weekend Fiction Break: The Story of My Name
Finally got around to reading it. I linked my (very short) review above.
@Shannon – Thanks Shannon – I’ll be sure to read your review.