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Animal Farm by George Orwell

All Animals are Equal but Some Animals are more Equal than Others

• Publisher: Harcourt, Brace and Company
• Genre: Allegory, Satire
• First Publication: 1945
• Language:  English

Major Characters: Snowball, Napoleon, Clover, Boxer, Old Major, Muriel, Jones, Squealer, Moses the Raven, Benjamin

Setting Place: A farm somewhere in England in the first half of the 20th century

Theme:  Revolution and Corruption, Totalitarianism, Power, Soviet Union

Narrator:  Third Person narration

Book Summary: Animal Farm by George Orwell

As ferociously fresh as it was more than a half century ago, this remarkable allegory of a downtrodden society of overworked, mistreated animals, and their quest to create a paradise of progress, justice, and equality is one of the most scathing satires ever published.

As we witness the rise and bloody fall of the revolutionary animals, we begin to recognize the seeds of totalitarianism in the most idealistic organization; and in our most charismatic leaders, the souls of our cruelest oppressors.

Book Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

Animal Farm by George Orwell captures the themes of oppression, rebellion and history repeating itself. Animal Farm begins like an ambitious children’s tale: After Mr. Jones, the owner of Manor Farm, falls asleep in a drunken stupor, all of his animals meet in the big barn at the request of old Major, a 12-year-old pig. Major delivers a rousing political speech about the evils inflicted upon them by their human keepers and their need to rebel against the tyranny of Man.

Shortly after, when Jones forgets to feed the animals, the revolution occurs, and Jones and his men are chased off the farm. Manor Farm is renamed Animal Farm, and the Seven Commandments of Animalism are painted on the barn wall, the most important being “ All animals are created equal “, which is later changed into “ All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others. ” Through the revision of the commandments, Orwell demonstrates how simply political dogma can be turned into malleable propaganda.

“The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.”

Animal Farm by George Orwell maybe not really children’s book material! There’s some heavy stuff. According to Orwell, the book reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union. He believed, the Soviet Union had become a brutal dictatorship, built upon a cult of personality and enforced by a reign of terror.

“I meant the moral to be that revolutions only effect a radical improvement when the masses are alert and know how to chuck out their leaders as soon as the latter have done their job. The turning-point of the story was supposed to be when the pigs kept the milk and apples for themselves.” – George Orwell on Animal Farm

In his essay  Why I Write  (1946), he wrote that Animal Farm was the first book in which he tried, with full consciousness of what he was doing, “ to fuse political purpose and artistic purpose into one whole “. In my humble opinion, he mastered that with flying colors.

The revolt of the animals against Farmer Jones is Orwell’s analogy with the October 1917 Bolshevik Revolution . The Battle of the Cowshed has been said to represent the allied invasion of Soviet Russia in 1918. The pigs’ rise to pre-eminence mirrors the rise of a Stalinist bureaucracy in the USSR, just as Napoleon’s emergence as the farm’s sole leader reflects Stalin’s emergence. The pigs’ appropriation of milk and apples for their own use stands as an analogy for the crushing of the left-wing 1921 Kronstadt revolt against the Bolsheviks, and the difficult efforts of the animals to build the windmill suggest the various Five Year Plans.

“The only good human being is a dead one.”

I am not a history buff and I wasn’t acquainted with all of the historic events mirrored in Animal Farm, nonetheless, Orwell’s narrative remained accessible, since it can not only be coined to the Russian Revolution but to revolutions and change in leadership in general. Animal Farm by George Orwell details the history of humankind on this planet. History repeating itself. People being driven by money and profit.

Animal Farm by George Orwell closes with the pigs and men in a kind of rapprochement, reflected Orwell’s view of the 1943 Teheran Conference that seemed to display the establishment of “ the best possible relations between the USSR and the West “—but in reality were destined, as Orwell presciently predicted, to continue to unravel. The disagreement between the allies and the start of the Cold War is suggested when Napoleon and Pilkington, both suspicious, “ played an ace of spades simultaneously “. Of course, only one of the two is technically cheating, but Orwell does not indicate which one because such a fact is unimportant.

Another theme of Animal Farm by George Orwell that also strikes a satiric note is the idea of religion being the “ opium of the people ” (as Karl Marx famously wrote). Moses the raven’s talk of Sugarcandy Mountain originally annoys many of the animals, since Moses, known as a “teller of tales,” seems an unreliable source. At this point, the animals are still hopeful for a better future and therefore dismiss Moses’ stories of a paradise elsewhere. As their lives worsen, however, the animals begin to believe him, because “ Their lives now, they reasoned, were hungry and laborious; Was it not right and just that a better world should exist somewhere else? ”

“Man serves the interests of no creature except himself.”

Here, Orwell mocks the futile dreaming of a better place that clearly does not exist. The pigs allow Moses to stay on the farm — and even encourage his presence by rewarding him with beer — because they know that his stories of Sugarcandy Mountain will keep the animals docile: As long as there is some better world somewhere — even after death — the animals will trudge through this one. Thus Orwell implies that religious devotion — viewed by many as a noble character trait — can actually distort the ways in which one thinks of his or her life on earth.

In conclusion, Animal Farm by George Orwell is a novel that completely shook me. A novel that will haunt and accompany for the rest of my life, and that I will continue to dread and look forward to picking up again and again and again.

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Animal farm.

• Common Sense Says
• Parents Say 16 Reviews
• Kids Say 128 Reviews

Common Sense Media Review

Classic satirical allegory about the abuse of power.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Animal Farm is George Orwell's biting satire of totalitarianism, written in the wake of World War II and published amid the rise of Soviet Russia. Though it tells a fairly simple story of barnyard animals trying to manage themselves after rebelling against their masters, the novel…

Why Age 11+?

The animals rebel against their human master and chase him from the farm. When F

Even though the use of alcohol is prohibited on the farm, the pigs eventually fe

Any Positive Content?

George Orwell's novel about totalitarianism in general and Stalinism in particul

The main message of Animal Farm is pretty bleak -- in essence, "Don't let this h

Many of the characters care about their community, but few understand how they'r

The different animal species represent human social classes. Pigs place themselv

Violence & Scariness

The animals rebel against their human master and chase him from the farm. When Farmer Jones returns with his neighbors, now armed with a gun, the animals attack the intruders and inflict various bites and cuts on them. Later, the pigs use their guard dogs to keep order on the farm. Some animals are publicly executed for crimes for which they've supposedly confessed. Animals die in another battle with the humans. The violence in the novel isn't described in detail, but its emotional implications might be upsetting.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Even though the use of alcohol is prohibited on the farm, the pigs eventually feel free to get drunk whenever the mood strikes them.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Educational Value

George Orwell's novel about totalitarianism in general and Stalinism in particular is one of the most famous satires in the English language. It comments on Soviet Russia specifically and human folly in general. That said, extra research is needed to tie the characters and events of Animal Farm to their counterparts in history.

Positive Messages

The main message of Animal Farm is pretty bleak -- in essence, "Don't let this happen." Most animals mean well and want their farm to succeed, but none are a match for the treachery of their leaders. It takes humility, perseverance, and teamwork to achieve something seemingly impossible, like animals running their own farm. You need courage to speak out against injustice and integrity to make the world better for others (which the surviving animals ultimately lack).

Positive Role Models

Many of the characters care about their community, but few understand how they're being exploited until it's too late. For example, Boxer the horse steadfastly supports the farm and pushes himself to great acts of strength for the good of all. But even he is unprepared for his ultimate fate once he's no longer needed. Animals like Snowball, the four feeder pigs, and the hens show courage and integrity in standing up for what's right, but they're overwhelmed by Napoleon and his corrupt followers.

Diverse Representations

The different animal species represent human social classes. Pigs place themselves at the top of the hierarchy along with the dogs they've trained to serve them, and they classify everyone else on the farm as a "lower animal." The few humans in this world are presumably White and mostly male. Female representation is limited: There's the steadfast, matronly horse Clover, who mostly tends to her partner, Boxer, and the shallow, vain horse Mollie, who leaves the farm early on. Other women play small roles, from the farmer's wife to the hens and sows.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.

Parents need to know that Animal Farm is George Orwell 's biting satire of totalitarianism, written in the wake of World War II and published amid the rise of Soviet Russia. Though it tells a fairly simple story of barnyard animals trying to manage themselves after rebelling against their masters, the novel demonstrates how easily good intentions can cross into tyranny. The animals create rules for their new farm, including no killing and no alcohol, but the pigs slowly change the rules, leading to executions and frequent drunkenness on their part. There are a couple of battles between the animals and the humans, who are eager to regain control, but violence isn't described in detail. Most of the animals show perseverance, humility, and teamwork, but admirable characters such as the hard-working horse Boxer and the idealistic pig Snowball are tragically overwhelmed by the selfish, scheming pig Napoleon and his corrupt regime.

Where to Read

Parent and kid reviews.

• Parents say (16)
• Kids say (128)

Based on 16 parent reviews

ANIMAL FARMIO

Epic rap battles of history : squealer vs. joseph stalin, what's the story.

In ANIMAL FARM, animals rise up against the oppressive Farmer Jones and chase him away. They plan to run the farm themselves, for their own benefit. At first, the animals are able to work together and support one another. But gradually the pigs make suggestions about how the farm should be run. Before long, the pigs are at the top of the social ladder, and the rest of the animals are wondering what happened.

Is It Any Good?

The story and language are very simple but unnervingly precise as this scathing book depicts each step on the road from revolution to tyranny. Animal Farm has been popular and highly acclaimed since its publication in 1945, and rightly so. It's a deceptively simple parable that makes strong points about the importance of education, the perils of propaganda, and the need to keep all leaders in check. It's crushing to watch the idealism of the animals get twisted and taken advantage of by greedy leaders (even more so when we remember this was based on actual human events). Telling the story through familiar barnyard animals makes the bitter pill easier to swallow. In 2005, Time magazine chose it as one of the 100 best English-language novels, and the book ranks at 31 on the Modern Library List of Best 20th Century Novels.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about totalitarianism in Animal Farm : what it means, how it shaped the 20th century, and whether it still exists today.

Soon after they take over the farm, the animals agree to follow "The Seven Commandments." The rules seem fairly basic, but they're changed over the course of the novel. How do leaders today change the rules to achieve their own agendas?

One of the novel's most famous quotes is "All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others." What might that paradoxical statement mean?

Why do you think Animal Farm is often required reading in school?

How do the animals on Animal Farm show perseverance , humility , and teamwork ? Which characters show courage and integrity ? Why are these important character strengths ? How might more courage and integrity from the rest of the characters have changed the story?

Book Details

• Author : George Orwell
• Genre : Literary Fiction
• Topics : Horses and Farm Animals
• Character Strengths : Courage , Humility , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
• Book type : Fiction
• Publication date : August 17, 1945
• Number of pages : 128
• Last updated : June 8, 2015

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

What to read next.

Wag the Dog

Equilibrium

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• Perseverance
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

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The Best Fiction Books

Animal farm, by george orwell, recommendations from our site.

“ Animal Farm sticks in everybody’s mind. ‘All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others’. Again, this is something read twice. I read it for the first time when I was 14 or 15 and it was a funny story about badly behaved animals, but then I read it again at college and someone pointed out to me that this was sharp social satire. I thought it was an animal story, a kids’ book, but when I took another look at it I realised what he was getting at. The Soviet leadership was pretty well represented there.” Read more...

The Best Political Satire Books

P. J. O’Rourke , Political Commentator

“I picked Animal Farm because it is an allegory about power and its seductive and corruptive influence on people regardless of their initial good intentions.” Read more...

The best books on Holding Power to Account

Heather Brooke , Journalist

There is the extraordinary political impact of those two books, Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty-Four, actually releasing out of the barrel a number of highly unpleasant but necessary truths about the way oligarchy and authoritarianism works in the mid-20th century, at a time when a lot of people were determined that those things shouldn’t be said. When Orwell was trying to get  Animal Farm  published in the mid 1940s, it was rejected by at least one English publishing firm because they had been recommended to turn it down by the Ministry of Information on the grounds that it was politically inadvisable, given that the Soviet Union were our allies. And Peter Smollett, the man who’d advised that the book be rejected, was actually a Soviet spy. That just shows you how convoluted the situation was in Britain in the mid-1940s.

The Best George Orwell Books recommended by D J Taylor

I remember when I was in Bulgaria during the takeover, and one of President Kolarov’s entourage asked, ‘Could you get me Orwell’s book?’. That meant his first book, Animal Farm . When I gave it to this party veteran and he read it, he said Orwell must have come from a Communist country. But of course Orwell didn’t – so it was possible to understand communism without having been there.

The best books on Communism recommended by Robert Conquest

He wrote this book ( 1984 ) in 1948, when he was dying of tuberculosis, in a great burst of passionate determination, because he could see long before other people where totalitarianism and communism were heading. Animal Farm  had told it as a kind of dark fairy-tale, but this was the culmination. The intellectual dishonesty of the Left, which refused to see how evil Stalin was, is despicable, and Orwell was brave enough to stand up to his friends as well as his enemies.

Books that Changed the World recommended by Amanda Craig

I could recommend you Steinbeck’s  Of Mice and Men , Orwell’s  Animal F a rm  or Kafka’s  The Metamorphosis , all of which clock in at around 100 pages in length. But perhaps these are too obvious, as they are often set texts in high school.

Very Short Books You Can Read In A Day recommended by Cal Flyn

Other books by George Orwell

Down and out in paris and london by george orwell, burmese days by george orwell, a clergyman’s daughter by george orwell, keep the aspidistra flying by george orwell, the road to wigan pier by george orwell, homage to catalonia by george orwell, our most recommended books, the rider by tim krabbé, made to stick by chip heath and dan heath, what goes around: a london cycle courier's story by emily chappell, what sticks by rex briggs and gregg stuart, higher calling: road cycling’s obsession with the mountains by max leonard, up the organization by robert townsend.

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Orwell’s Fables

George orwell's story is too close to recent historical events without being close enough..

George Orwell in his critical writings shows imagination and taste; his wit is both edged and human. Few writers of any period have been able to use the English language so simply and accurately to say what they mean, and at the same time to mean something. The news that he had written a satirical allegory, telling the story of a revolution by farm animals against their cruel and dissolute master, and of their subsequent fortunes, was like the smell of a roast from a kitchen ruled by a good cook, near the end of a hungry morning. The further news that this book had been chosen and was being pushed by the Book of the Month Club, though it occasioned surprise, was pleasant because it seemed to herald one of those instances when unusual talent of the sort rarely popular receives recognition and a great tangible reward.

There are times when a reviewer is happy to report that a book is bad because it fulfills his hope that the author will expose himself in a way that permits a long deserved castigation. This is not one of them, I was expecting that Orwell would again give pleasure and that his satire of the sort of thing which democrats deplore in the Soviet Union would be keen and cleansing. Instead, the book puzzled and saddened me. It seemed on the whole dull. The allegory turned out to be a creaking machine for saying in a clumsy way things that have been said better directly. And many of the things said are not instantly recognized as the essence of truth, but are of the sort which start endless and boring controversy.

Orwell does know his farm animals and gives them vivid personalities. Many will recognize Benjamin, the donkey who never commits himself, never hurries and thinks that in the end nothing much matters. Mollie the saddle horse, who wanders from the puritanical path of the revolution to seek ribbons for her mane, the cat who never does any work, the hens who sabotage by laying their eggs in the rafters, Clover and Boxer, the powerful, trusting and honest draught horses, are all real enough. But these spontaneous creatures seem in action like circus animals performing mechanically to the crack of the story-teller’s whip.

Part of the trouble lies in the fact that the story is too close to recent historical events without being close enough. Major, the aged pig who on his deathbed tells the animals of their oppression and prophesies revolution, must be Karl Marx. His two followers who lead the revolution, Napoleon and Snowball, are then readily identified as Lenin and Trotsky. This identification turns out to be correct in the case of Snowball, but the reader soon begins to puzzle over the fact that Napoleon disapproves the project of building a windmill—an obvious symbol for electrification and industrialization—whereas this was Lenin’s program. The puzzlement is increased when Napoleon chases out Snowball as a traitor; it was Stalin who did this.

And so it goes through incident after incident. The young dogs are alone selected for schooling; later they appear as the secret police. Is this a picture of Soviet education? The pigs not only keep the best food for themselves, but also become drunkards, taking over the pasture reserved for retirement of the superannuated in order to raise the necessary barley. Of course prohibition was abolished early in the revolution, but have the leaders drunk too much and has social insurance been abolished? There is a pathetic incident when Boxer, the sturdy and loyal old work horse, is sent off to be slaughtered and turned into dog food and bone meal, under the pretext that he is being hospitalized. Just what part of Soviet history corresponds to this?

Nobody would suppose that good allegory is literally accurate, but when the reader is continually led to wonder who is who and what aspect of reality is being satirized, he is prevented either from enjoying the story as a story or from valuing it as a comment. Masters like Swift and Anatole France, with whom Orwell is compared in the blurbs, were not guilty of this fault. They told good stories, the interest of which did not lie wholly in their caricature. And their satire, however barbed, was not dependent on identification of historical personages or specific events.

The thoughtful reader must be further disturbed by the lack of clarity in the main intention of the author. Obviously he is convinced that the animals had just cause for revolt and that for a time their condition was improved under the new regime. But they are betrayed by their scoundrelly, piggish leaders. In the end, the pigs become indistinguishable from the men who run the other nearby farms; they walk on two legs, have double and triple chins, wear clothes and carry whips. Animal Farm reverts to the old Manor Farm in both name and reality.

No doubt this is what George Orwell thinks has happened in Russia. But if he wants to tell us why it happened, he has failed. Does he mean to say that not these pigs, but Snowball, should have been on top? Or that all the animals should have been merged in a common primitive communism without leaders or organization? Or that it was a mistake to try to industrialize, because pastoral simplicity is the condition of equality and cooperation? Or that, as in the old saw criticizing socialism, the possibility of a better society is a pipe-dream, because if property were distributed equally, the more clever and selfish would soon get a larger share and things would go on as of old? Though I am sure he did not intend this moral, the chances are that a sample poll of the book-club readers in the United States would indicate that a large majority think so and will heartily approve the book on that account.

There is no question that Orwell hates tyranny, sycophancy, deceitful propaganda, sheeplike acceptance of empty political formulas. His exposures of these detestable vices constitute the best passages in the book. There have been plenty of such abuses in Russia, They also crop up in other places. It is difficult to believe that they determined the whole issue of the Russian revolution, or that Russia is now just like every other nation. No doubt in some respects she is worse than most; in other respects she may be better.

It seems to me that the failure of this book (commercially it is already assured of tremendous success) arises from the fact that the satire deals not with something the author has experienced, but rather with stereotyped ideas about a country which he probably does not know very well. The plan for the allegory, which must have seemed a good one when be first thought of it, became mechanical in execution. It almost appears as if he had lost his zest before be got very far with the writing. He should try again, and this time on something nearer home.

Animal Farm

By george orwell.

George Orwell’s 'Animal Farm,' often misunderstood to be Children’s Literature, is a political satire on Stalin Russia. The novel projects how the people of Russia fall prey to a totalitarian regime when they were dreaming of a more free country of equality for all.

About the Book

Article written by Mizpah Albert

M.A. in English Literature and a Ph.D. in English Language Teaching.

It is an allegorical novel that deals with the Russian revolution through the animals in the manor farm who protests against their human masters’ tyranny. Unfortunately, when they feel like they have attained freedom, they become the victims of a power-hungry pig, Napoleon. He becomes a totalitarian dictator and rephrases the ideology of Animalism from “All are Equal” to “All Animals Are Equal / But Some Are More Equal Than Others” oppression.

Key Facts about  Animal Farm

• Title:   Animal Farm, though initially known as Animal Farm: A Fairy Story
• When/where written : Orwell started writing the novel in 1944
• Published:  First published in England on 17 August 1945 and in the U.S in 1946
• Literary Period:  Modernist period
• Genre:  Political satire; AllegoryPoint-of-View: Third-person through an anonymous writer
• Setting : Mr. Jones’ Manor Farm
• Climax : The Climax of the novel appears in Chapter V, where Napoleon runs Snowball off the farm, to secure power.
• Antagonist: Napoleon

George Orwell and Animal Farm

George Orwell was a committed socialist , who expressed his strong views through his intellectual engagements.  He has clearly portrayed his dissatisfaction over the dictators and megalomaniacs through his writings. If one observes his works clearly it could be clearly seen how he has dealt with socialism as something more than an emotion. Moreover, he has identified the Spanish Civil War of 1936 as some kind of defining moment in his career. For, he too has taken part in the war which unfortunately incapacitated him.

‘Animal Farm’ depicts the agony of Orwell as a Socialist as he sees the way Socialism has been deformed by Stalin. Orwell deliberately mocks and criticizes the Russian leadership under Lenin using Animals in the novel. It is evidently his disappointment exhibited through the simple story that shares his detailed perspectives on the Socialist Revolution. Orwell in his ‘ Animal Farm’ explains the Russian Revolution as a history of a revolution that went wrong through the animals’ attempt to attain freedom and equality which unfortunately leads to dictatorship. Initially, when the animals secure their freedom they form a utopian society, but soon they fall prey to the dictatorship of the pigs which were the brightest of other animals. The course of the story stands for The Russian Revolution of 1917 and the early years of the Soviet Union. While concluding the novel Orwell honestly illustrates the miserable impact of power in the life of comrades who become tyrannical dictators who initially fought for a cause quite opposite.

Books related to Animal Farm

‘Animal Farm’ is a widely read allegorical novel of George Orwell set in a dystopian world. It is a political satire in all its form on the negative result of the Russian Revolution and Stalin’s dictatorship. Though Orwell is a believer in socialism, he warns people against the dangers of Communism and totalitarian states, which was spreading rapidly in Europe with the possibility of Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany coming to power. Similar to Orwell’s Animal Farm, there are works intended as a political satire by different authors at different periods. These allegorical novels serve a moral or political idea woven into a fictional story.

Some of the novels that follow the setting and the theme of ‘ Animal farm’ include Aldous Huxley’s  Brave New World , Ray Bradbury’s  Fahrenheit 451 , Golding’s Lord of the Flies, and Orwell’s famous dystopian novel 1984 . Bradbury in his dystopian novel Fahrenheit 451 written during the 1950s, at the height of McCarthyism in America, explores the dangers of rejecting knowledge in his. Similarly, Golding’s Lord of the Flies, written in 1954, examines the anxieties of society post-world war. Also, Aldous Huxley in his Brave New World deals with a futuristic world where the citizens are genetically modified to uphold the authoritarian regime. In contrast to ‘ Animal Farm,’   1984 is set in a futuristic world and explores the effects of totalitarianism and warns the world against it.

The Lasting Impact of Animal Farm

‘Animal Farm’ though a short book is one of the few books that are featured as favorites by most people since its publication. Still in 1945, when Orwell tried to publish the book, it wasn’t a cakewalk for him. The publishing houses in Britain were hesitant for it was criticizing the Russian government, which was an ally then. Even, T. S. Eliot, who was a director of a publishing firm, rejected stating that it is “good writing” and still “not convincing.”

In this allegorical novel, Orwell makes one experience all the human emotions through the animal characters in the novel. Orwell attacks on Stalinism in Russia through the characters of ‘ Animal Farm.’  The dominant figures of Animalism, The Old Major, Snowball, and Napoleon represent Karl Marx, Leon Trotsky, and Stalin respectively. Napoleon driving Snowball out of the farm is based on Trotsky, who was expelled from the Communist Party, deported from Russia, and murdered by Stalin’s order.

The novel in all its significance speaks about power and corruption and how a democratic farm turns into a dictatorship. Even after decades of its publication, it stands as evidence of the political system’s universality. Napoleon uses propaganda, fear, and force to accomplish his motive. Similarly, this is a happening of all ages. It could be relevant to all periods wherever the dictators take advantage of the human desire for a better world for their own selfish interests. Thus, reading ‘ Animal Farm’ will remain an eye-opener for the generations to come as a manual to question power and hold leaders and the government responsible for their acts. In the end, the key characters not only represent the dictatorial regime of Stalin but also of any regime that tries to hold ultimate power over its subordinates.

Thus, all the unique features of the novel as mentioned stand as evidence for the long-lasting impact the novel has created in the past decades.

Animal Farm Review ⭐

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A farm is taken over by its overworked, mistreated animals. With flaming idealism and stirring slogans, they set out to create a paradise of progress, justice, and equality.

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Book review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

George Orwell is a name that needs no introduction if you’re a fan of literature and Animal Farm is one of, if not his most, famous books. Animal Farm centres around animals rebelling against humans on a farm and rising up as part of a revolution.

Please note that this article contains affiliate links. This means if you choose to purchase Animal Farm via one of these links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you to support the blog. These links do not affect my final opinion of the product.

Animal Farm was written in 1945 by George Orwell and as noted above tells the story of a group of farm animals who decide to overthrow the humans that run the farm with the aim of living a better life. However, in typical George Orwell form, things don’t go exactly as planned and there are huge political connotations throughout the book.

One day Old Major, a boar on a farm in the middle of England calls all of the animals of the farm together and tells them that the reason they live in a life that constantly sees them producing and working to only have their produce taken is away is because they are ruled by humans. They then quickly rebel against Mr Jones, the owner of the farm, driving him out and beginning their own rules on the farm. Everything starts out very well, they set clear rules and guides so that everybody is treated fairly, eats well and contributes an equal amount. However, things begin to change as intelligence, importance and hierarchy are brought into force.

Animal Farm is a book that’s been studied in British Schools for decades due to its social suggestions and political education. George Orwell does a fantastic job in this book of exploring how societies collapse into a dictatorship slowly but steadily via careful planning and building of trust. Animal Farm gives us a simple selection of subjects – animals from a farm. It then uses well-known traits about these animals – horses are strong, pigs and dogs are smart, sheep and ducks are dumb etc to give us an idea of how these people would be represented in society. These animals are literal and metaphorical clones of human beings within society. Along with this, we see Orwell write a story that shows us how certain animals (people) make it to the top of their power tree and then use their intelligence and control to stay there via propaganda and lies.

I loved the plot of this book. It was a true joy to follow the adventures of these animals – how they all dealt with one another and how the story progressed so far in so few pages (it’s only a novella). You’re gripped the whole way through as you can see where you’re being taken but Orwell is doing such a great job of explaining things to you that you’re finding it a joy to be taken there.

Characters – 4/5 

I’m not really sure how to rate the characters in this book as none of them fit into my usual brackets of being “good” characters. Plus, as with Orwell’s other books, there isn’t a vast amount of dialogue between the characters. It is written with a very passive voice, often writing about the events happening rather than actually having the characters take part in the event as part of the plot. However, Orwell has a brilliant way of writing this where he combines intelligent language but simple prose so it’s very accessible but also intelligent enough to not feel like you’re reading a children’s book.

However, as discussed above, they each have their own characteristics that make them more suited to the new Animal Farm regime or less suited. The Pigs, deemed the most intelligent, essentially end up running the farm as they are accepted to make the best decisions of the masses. Boxer is a horse, he’s hard-working, quiet and well-loved by many for his dedication. There’s Leonard, a boar who becomes the leader, enforcing new rules as he slowly gains the trust of his fellow farm members. There are some really interesting characters here who you feel could represent people you know or political figures from history. Either way, Orwell has done a great job of simply making each of these characters different. However, I have dropped it one point as this isn’t a character-driven book and so many of them weren’t overly fleshed out.

Animal Farm summary – 5/5

Animal Farm is a wonderful book. It’s the first time I’ve read it and I can see why so many people hail it as such a fantastic piece of British literature. I can also see why it’s been studied in British academia – it’s a book about the power of propaganda and social control. It’s a book that puts into simple terms how your personality, intelligence, ethics and even physical build can affect where you end up in life and your importance to society. We’re very lucky in Britain to live in a society that isn’t centred around those mentioned above to allow you to progress in whatever profession or lifestyle you wish to progress in. However, it’s worth noting that Orwell noted that this book reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union so its messages are very real.

I’d recommend Animal Farm to anybody who is in political propaganda, anybody may well be into a bit of fantasy (it’s a book about animals forming a society) or people that simply want to read an absolute classic of literature.

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Book review: “Animal Farm” by George Orwell

“Oh, I read that — in high school, I think,” the waitress said as she saw me with George Orwell’s 1945 novel Animal Farm .

“Yeah, I might have even read it in grade school,” I said.  “It’s different reading it now.  Back then, it was all about Communism.  Now, it’s about….well, everything.”

Animal Farm was less than two decades old when I read it sometime in the early 1960s, but it was already a classic.  That was, in part, because it was heavily promoted by our elders as a total indictment of the Soviet Union and its totalitarian form of Communism. 

There’s no question that Orwell, who died in 1950, patterned the events in his short novel on the Russian Revolution and on the resulting government that evolved into a top-heavy, brutal regime based on lying and terror.  It seemed made-to-order for the rabid anti-Reds in America in that era, and Orwell’s fable-like simplicity in telling the story meant it was assigned to an entire generation to preteens and teens. 

I suspect, however, that, had he lived longer, Orwell would have been chagrined at how his novel had been pigeon-holed as an anti-Communist tract — because it isn’t.

How power corrupts

Orwell’s simplicity of language isn’t a dumbing down of the story to make it palatable for children.  There is genius in the way he walks the reader through the tale, and, if it seems easy to read, that, I’m sure, is because Orwell wanted everyone, including adults, regardless of their education, to be able to take it in. 

It is a modern fable, a parable, a story to teach a lesson.  And the lesson is about more than Russian Communists.

It’s a lesson about how power corrupts, no matter the situation. 

In the novel, the animals on Manor Farm revolt against Farmer Jones and win possession and control of the farm.  And, the next day, they gather on a knoll from which they can see their shared domain:

Yes, it was theirs — everything that they could see was theirs! In the ecstasy of that thought they gamboled round and round, they hurled themselves into the air in great leaps of excitement.  They rolled in the dew, they cropped mouthfuls of the sweet summer grass, they kicked up clods of the black earth and snuffed its rich scent.

Echoes any revolution

Over the next hundred pages, the pigs who led the revolt — Napoleon and Snowball, and their spokesman Squealer — gather more and more power unto themselves.  The two leaders have a falling out, and Snowball is chased away, lucky to survive with his life.  The Seven Commandments that were promulgated in the aftermath of the rebellion are increasingly adjusted to the benefit of Napoleon and the other pigs, and their dog allies. 

One of the most shocking developments is the line of animals who are forced to confess to crimes against the farm and are immediately executed.  Then, Boxer, the steadfast, salt-of-the-earth workhorse, breaks down with age and overwork and is sent off to the knacker’s to be killed and turned into glue.

The story fits the first half century of the Soviet Union, but it also echoes what happens in any rebellion, whether the French Revolution or the American Revolution or ones still to come.

The idealism at the beginning of a revolt has to do with equality, but that equality will soon fade away as those with power use their power.   As Napoleon eventually tells the other animals in the form of a new commandment that replaces the earlier ones:

“ALL ANIMALS ARE EQUAL BUT SOME ARE MORE EQUAL THAN OTHERS.”

As Animal Farm details, those in power keep control by using their power for that purpose.  They also use propaganda and terror and statistics and high ideals and outright lies.

Orwell’s novel is not just a fable.  It is also a warning to the multitudes of any nation that those in power will do whatever they can get away with in order to stay in charge.

Oh, you may say, it hasn’t happened here in the United States in the way Orwell as written.  It won’t happen here.  It can’t happen here.

Of course, it has been happening, as anyone paying attention can attest to.

One last note:  There’s no happy ending to Animal Farm .

Patrick T. Reardon

Written by : Patrick T. Reardon

For more than three decades Patrick T. Reardon was an urban affairs writer, a feature writer, a columnist, and an editor for the Chicago Tribune. In 2000 he was one of a team of 50 staff members who won a Pulitzer Prize for explanatory reporting. Now a freelance writer and poet, he has contributed chapters to several books and is the author of Faith Stripped to Its Essence. His website is https://patricktreardon.com/.

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Book Review

Animal farm.

• George Orwell

Readability Age Range

• The novel was originally published in 1945 by London's Secker and Warburg. Many have published it since then, such as Plume, a division of Penguin.
• 1946 Hugo award for best novella, retroactively awarded in 1996

Year Published

This book has been reviewed by Focus on the Family’s marriage and parenting magazine .

Plot Summary

Animal Farm is a satirical tale set on a typical English farm. As the story begins, Mr. Jones, the manager of Manor Farm, is drunk and staggering off to bed after forgetting to properly secure his farm’s outbuildings. In the barn, the animals gather to hear a speech by Old Major, a pig who is a highly respected member of the animal community. Old Major knows that he will die soon, and he wants to pass along the wisdom he has acquired over his lifetime. He tells his barnyard companions that humans are to blame for the miserable existence that animals must endure. The life of animals is filled with labor and suffering, only to be cut short when they are no longer useful. Major tells his friends a dream that he had the previous night, a dream of a world where animals are free and treated with respect. Major says that in order to fulfill that dream, animals must unite in a great rebellion against the tyranny of man. This rebellion can only be successful if the animals can band together in perfect unity against humanity, resisting the false view propagated by humans.

The animals start to talk about which animals should be considered comrades, wondering if even rats should be allies. Old Major says that it will be easy to determine comrades from enemies: Creatures that walk on two legs are the enemy, while those with four legs (or wings) are friends. The old boar then reminds the animals that they must never act like the enemy: They must not live in houses like man does, drink alcohol or smoke tobacco, use money or otherwise participate in business and trade, or kill other animals.

Major then teaches the animals a song he created called “Beasts of England.” The lyrics portray a utopian view of what the animal community will look like once it rebels against man and is in control of its own destiny. While singing the song, the animals awaken Mr. Jones, who thinks that a fox must have snuck into the yard. He fires a shot at the barn; the animals stop singing and are silent for the night.

A few nights after the meeting, Old Major dies. Three younger pigs named Napoleon, Snowball and Squealer develop Major’s principles into a philosophy they call “Animalism.” Thus inspired to fulfill Major’s dream, the animals unite in battle against Mr. Jones and his men, managing to drive them off the property. Snowball renames “Manor Farm” to “Animal Farm,” and writes the laws of Animalism on the side of the barn.

At first, all seems to go well. The animals are committed to achieving Major’s utopian dream. Boxer, a cart horse, commits his size and strength to the prosperity of Animal Farm, vowing to work harder than he ever did for humans. Snowball begins to teach other animals to read. Napoleon educates a group of puppies in the principles of Animalism.

When Mr. Jones tries to take back the farm, the animals once again run him off the land in a victory that is to be remembered as the Battle of the Cowshed. The animals take the farmer’s discarded rifle as a trophy. The first harvest is a success. Adhering to the principles of Animalism, each animal works according to his ability, receiving a fair share of food in return.

After a time, Napoleon and Snowball begin to disagree about the future of the farm. They each try to build influence and favor among the other animals to become more popular. Snowball announces a plan to build a windmill that will produce electricity, but Napoleon strongly opposes the plan. At a meeting to vote on whether to build the windmill, Snowball gives a passionate speech in defense of the project. Napoleon gives only a brief response, and then commands nine attack dogs — the puppies that he has “educated” — to go into the barn and chase Snowball off the farm. Napoleon takes over as the leader of Animal Farm and declares that Animal Farm’s community meetings will cease. From now on, he says, the pigs will make all of the decisions for the good of the animals.

Napoleon soon changes his mind about the windmill, portraying the idea as his own. The animals, especially Boxer, devote all their energy to the project. One day, after a night of severe weather, the animals discover that the windmill has crumpled to the ground. Neighboring human farmers laugh at the animals, knowing that they’d made the walls too weak.

Napoleon insists that Snowball returned to the farm to sabotage the windmill. He begins to purge the farm of all the animals he accuses of joining Snowball’s mutiny, focusing on those who have raised any objection to his own leadership. These “traitors” are put to death by his loyal attack dogs.

Napoleon begins to expand his powers. He revises history to portray Snowball as a villain. He also begins to act more and more like a human. He sleeps in a bed in the house, drinks whisky and engages in trade with the neighboring human farmers. Squealer, serving as Napoleon’s loyal propagandist, explains to the other animals that Napoleon’s role as a wise and great leader means that he requires special privileges. After all, he is making things better for everyone. In reality, the other animals are cold, hungry and overworked.

Mr. Frederick, a neighboring farmer, tricks Napoleon while purchasing some timber, cheating him out of a portion of the money. Frederick then attacks the farm and blows up the windmill, which has been rebuilt at great cost to the farm. After the destruction of the windmill, a great battle begins against Frederick’s men. The animals are able to win, but Boxer is seriously injured in the fight. He later crumples to the ground while working on the windmill. When Boxer disappears from the farm, Squealer announces that Boxer has died peacefully in the hospital, praising the rebellion until the very end. In actuality, Napoleon sold his most loyal worker to a glue maker in order to buy more whisky.

Years pass on Animal Farm, and the pigs behave more and more like humans — walking upright, carrying whips, wearing clothes. They buy a telephone and subscribe to magazines. Gradually, the seven principles of Animalism painted on the side of the barn are reduced to one rule: All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.

One night, Napoleon holds a banquet for the neighboring farmers. A farmer named Pilkington makes a speech praising Animal Farm’s long work hours and low rations. Napoleon declares his intent to ally himself with human farmers against the working classes of both species. He also changes the name of the farm back to Manor Farm, claiming that this name was always the correct one.

As the animals look through the dirty windows at the party of humans and pigs inside the house, they can no longer distinguish one from another.

Christian Beliefs

Other belief systems.

There is no direct reference to religion, although the allegory has some light references to religious belief. Moses, the farmer’s pet raven, tells stories of a place called Sugarcandy Mountain, a wonderful country where animals go when they die. The political philosophy of Animalism is elevated to a near-religious status, with references to divine leaders and other elements of religious conviction. The principles of Animalism are developed and called the Seven Commandments.

Authority Roles

Inspired by the events of World War II and the Russian Revolution, Animal Farm is a fierce criticism of totalitarianism. The fable shows how a community of well-meaning animals rebel against their oppressive human masters, and gradually surrender absolute power to a new, corrupt leadership.

Profanity & Violence

In various fights, animals attack humans. The animals use their teeth, beaks and hooves. The pig authorities use attack dogs to maintain their rule. Animals are executed for crimes they did not commit. Descriptions of violence are not graphic.

Sexual Content

Discussion topics.

Get free discussion questions for this book and others, at FocusOnTheFamily.com/discuss-books .

Additional Comments

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Animal Farm by George Orwell

Animal Farm by George Orwell was first published in 1945 and will be celebrating its seventieth birthday next year. It is still a keen area of debate whether it remains relevant for readers of this generation - I certainly believe it is, and the fact that it is still studied as part of the United Kingdom’s English Literature curriculum would add further credence to this opinion. I re-read the novella last night and found its themes and messages just as powerful, moving and relevant as they must have been seven decades ago.

George Orwell was – and still is - one of Great Britain’s most famous writers and it was Animal Farm, and the dystopian nightmare Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949) which first brought him worldwide respect. Animal Farm is set in a farmyard where the animals decide to seize the farmer's land and create a co-operative that reaps the benefits of their combined labours. However, some animals see a bigger share of the rewards than others, and the animals start to question their supposed utopia. Little by little, the rules begin to mysteriously change, and the pigs seem to gain power little by little, making the animals question what society they were striving for in the first place and whether their new-found freedom is as liberating as they might have hoped.

Animal Farm is one of the greatest socio-political works of all time but there is no need for the reader to pick-up on - or understand - any of the allusions to Lenin, Marx, Trotsky or Stalin as the story can be enjoyed as the simple, moving and enlightening parable it essentially is, a story that clearly shows humankind at its best and very worst. For me, it highlights the demons within every human – jealousy, greed, laziness and cruelty born of fear.

The parable successfully shows how the dream that communism in theory could be so easily turns into the nightmare that totalitarianism again and again has proven to be. I have always found anthropomorphism within the animal kingdom to provide an excellent framework within on which to build very serious themes – William Horwood’s Duncton Wood deals with religious intolerance, Watership Down deals with the never-ending struggle between tyranny and freedom. And for some reason, a loyal horse betrayed can become one of the most tragic and sympathetic figures in literature.

Animal Farm is moving, bitter and a warning from history – one of which will of course be ignored, for that is what humans excel at, repeating the errors and misjudgements of the past. It will only take 2-3 hours to read from cover to cover and as I believe it can now be sourced legitimately for free from sources like Project Gutenberg it is a book that anyone could and should read.

• Buy on Amazon

Review by Floresiensis

43 positive reader review(s) for Animal Farm

Junaid from England

A brilliant and timeless analyse of the mechanics of bureaucracy, ultimate betrayal of the hopes of the people. Let's pray it remains in the curriculum, for this story talks about power and control in general, not only in a communist system. The worst we could do against this book is to keep on saying "it is only about totalitarianism and the history of the USSR"... Not only, not only

The book Animal Farm an engaging and educational must read. I thought it was very interesting how he portrayed the the cycle of revolution turning into tyranny. He describes how easily good intentions can be subverted into tyranny. This book indirectly describes communism and the government and how you can never make everyone happy. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Orwell's writing is pessimistic and visual. I recommend this book.

Someone from California

Everyone should read and it is base on a true story. EVERYONE SHOULD READ ANIMAL FARM!

Bita from Iran

One of the greatest book I have ever read. Just a writer can write this kinda book that has a powerful imagination and Mr Orwell was the right person for that. It was months that my friends recommended it to me but I thought that it will be weird and I won't like it but when I finished the book I got that I was wrong whole time.

Arnav from India

Mr. Jones owns a farm in which the animals are treated harshly. This leads to a widespread rebellion of animals and then they overthrow the humans. The main objective of this rebellion is that the animals should lead a life of their own.

Ali from Pakistan

I have recently read the novella "Animal Farm", and I found it as influential as it must have been for the readers who were looking for the masterpiece of English literature. I am amazingly impressed by the plot, and its allegorical flow of theme. All in all, it gets into your and impels you to complete it as soon as one may. Interestingly, I read it for my academic course but it is on the top of the masterpieces I have read it so far. It explicitly indicates what political leaders of modern world brag for, but when they access to the realm of power their hypocrisy is reveled and they leave no stones to fill their buckets with the blood and sweet of the masses.

Thalia from England

I studied Animal Far for my English class and it was an amazingly fascinating book to read, it does well to portray how difficult it must have been to live in the Russian Revolution and it makes me feel very lucky to live today.

Heather from Canada

I am not even finished the book however it is such a joy to read! Knowing the reason why Orwell wrote this book and relating it back to history was so symbolic! Even though some may say that it is difficult for kids under 15, I am under 15 and it is not difficult for me. If you really spent the time devouring every word, this book is such a joy to read. It portrays what happened then and translating it to a perspective we can all imagine as. Animal Farm is an excellent book and everyone must read it at least once in their life!

Anon from UK

A must read book for everyone.

Paul Mendy from Gambia

Very nice book

John from Canada

I I read this book in 1965, and it is still in my library it is an eye opener to readers.

Jeff from Jamaica

I love the book!!!

Sourov Datta Bijoy from Bangladesh

Animal Farm is a great a depiction of the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the USSR. It shows how the leaders manipulates public over their believes (sometimes which are wrong).

Professor from UK

Animal Farm is an engaging eye-opening book that highlights the issues about betrayal, greed and inequality in human society. The book is based on the Russian revolution and shows how we are tricked into believing the ideas set by leaders.

Fatemeh from Iran

Such an interesting and symbolic book! I really enjoyed reading this amazing book.

Ibrahima Sanoh from The Gambia

the book shows how humanity is and the book is very nice and sensible.

Rads from United Kingdom

This is the greatest satire of the darker face of modern history which highlights deep issues about trust, betrayal, tyranny and corruption. Orwell's chilling fable is remarkably accurate and gives is one of the best allegories out there to read. It is a book worth reading by anyone who understands its context and structure. This 94-page book is the best book I have ever read and I am glad I read it! A MUST READ!!!!!!

Dali from Africa

So goood!!!!!!!!!

Missu from Canada

Difficult reading, great discussion.

Sky from United States

This book was assigned to me in my senior English class. This book was nothing I was anticipating. I was promised a book with talking animals. I came to find out that it was much more. This book is much bigger than that once you learn the purpose driven behind it. George Orwell uses the animal fable effectively to show the issues of injustice, and inequality in human society/human nature. He tells a story of The Russian Revolution through Animal Farm. He express his opinions on the circumstances, while also exposing the corrupt system in communism. He does an incredible job at this. The theme i received from this story was the corruption in the Soviet Union. I received this through the many issues and conflicts throughout the stories, especially the ones that had to do with the over use of power. All in all, it was a good story with many surprises. Solid 9/10

Ezekiel from South Sudan

Animal farm which was written seven decades ago is still relevant in to day generation. It is a story where animal characters represent humans. Animals fought for freedom and equality which they achieved by seizing the farm land from Jones. At long run the cause of struggle for the like of Snowball was betrayed by tyrant (Napoleon).

Cris from England

I think that this book was outstanding, because it thoroughly describes how communism was acted, in a childish way. I recommend everyone to read this book!!

Joel from Africa

A Book for the Ages Animal Farm is a timeless piece of literature which feels like a modern masterpiece. It tells a deeply engrossing story with many dramatic twists within its relatively small number of pages. This story deals with themes of corruption and utopias in a satirical but immersive way. The fact that Animal Farm is based on the Russian Revolution is no secret, but the use of animals as an analogy provides a different perspective to this historical event. This animal representation is done so masterfully that it works perfectly as a standalone story, without the reader needing any prior knowledge on the topic. Overall, Animal Farm takes creates a unique story and breaks many common conventions to create a compelling narrative. Animal Farm follows the rise and fall of an animal rebellion against the farmer, Mr. Jones. The opening speech given by Old Major creates a vision for the revolution and presents a promising future for the farm. As the story progresses, Jones and other farmers work to fight this revolution in the “Animal Farm.” Along with this conflict, the foundation of this new society where “all animals are equal” (Orwell 14) begins to crumble. At the beginning of the story, the ideas of the revolution seem justified, but the progression of Animal Farm leads to the realization of how flawed this new society actually is. This downfall is coupled with an internal battle for power and control. It is deeply interesting to follow the characters as they each find their own way to cope with this changing environment. Ultimately, this is a story of corruption which explores this concept to its full extent. Animal Farm will hit home with an older audience. This is especially true for those who have experienced similar problems of manipulation and corruption as those seen in the story. Although the animals in Animal Farm represent different groups and people in Russia during the communist revolution, the hunger for power is still largely present in the world today. An adult audience may more easily realize the connection to the story’s development and to other leaders throughout history. The true brilliance behind Animal Farm lies in its intelligent use of satire. George Orwell’s approach of representing millions of people as single characters creates an enjoyable story about a serious event. Although many other stories use animals as main characters in their story, few books do so as masterfully as Animal Farm. Each character’s limitations, roles, and skills fit the animal they are. This technique works as a great way to introduce obstacles for each animal to overcome; adding further depth to the plot and conflict within the story. The most positive aspect of this story is the unconventional plot. Almost all stories set up an obstacle and follow how the “good guys” overcome it. In Animal Farm, this is the case, but only for the first few chapters of the story. After the farm rises against Mr. Jones, the main conflict is resolved and the true conflict arises. Animal Farm is not about a revolution; rather, it is about the internal struggle in a society where “all animals are equal.” The major question this book strives to answer is if such a society is even possible. Following each character as the farm continued to fall further into turmoil proved to create a compelling and a thoroughly enjoyable tale. Overall, I would give Animal Farm a rating of four and a half stars out of five. My only gripe in reading Animal Farm is that the book ended early. The powerful and shocking conclusion had me wondering how the animals would react to this turn of events and if any of them would finally realize the weight of their situation. Nevertheless, the story kept me intrigued all the way through with a good pace and engaging conflicts. The themes of betrayal and power-hungry leaders fit brilliantly with the communist history Animal Farm is based off of. The events and nature of characters continue to hold true when compared to leaders today. These connections between the real world and the book make the story more enjoyable. Each character felt unique and added something to the story’s plot. This is a great book that I would definitely recommend picking up. Long live Animal Farm!

Aabha Sangmin from India

A very good satire. You can enjoy it as a simple story but if you are really interested in the contemporary world politics then this book should be in your book shelf. How the utopian dream of the animals struggling for a communist society where they can enjoy equal rights and freedom shattered and ultimately led them to live a miserable life under a totalitarian ruler under the constant fear of some unknown enemy is very precisely described in the book and you can have an insight of the condition of Russian people under Lenin and Stalin's rule through the book.

Ngozika from South Africa

The book is very interesting and fun to read. I even got 100% for my book review. I AM ONLY IN GRADE 5. Best book ever.

Jerry from China

One of the best books I've ever read about. It profoundly exposed the disadvantage of totalitarianism and has a unique view (though pessimistic) on what's gonna happen next in our view. Just one more thing, Orwell is not criticizing communism or socialism, he's actually a supporter of it.

AnupA Khanal from Nepal

I never got bored reading this book. Totally moving and completely different than other works.

Shalvi from India

It's a most interesting book to read, which tells about and compare the Russian revolutionary. It also shows the difference of equality between animals who has more compare to take extra response from other's animals. its a subjugation, intimidation and the simplicity of masses of what actually happens in a socio- life. This book directly describes how easily good intentions to be the tyranny. we can also say that- it is totally based on distopiniasim and the history of the Russian revolution. All the characters were based on this revolution and it is a good book for everyone.

Zibani from Botswana

This is a very addictivve book. In a good way. I loved it.

Peter Byrne from Australia

I absolutely loved every page of it! I just couldn't put it down, very engaging! Recommend it to anyone who is looking for a book to read, it's just amazing! 😘

Ahmad from Egypt - Giza

I like this book so much. It's an amazing book about revolution, like in Egypt.

Samip from Nepal

This book is the exact reflection of the political system throughout the world. This is what the politics really is..... all about obtaining power. Mostly in context of the developing country like ours this is the case. We ignorant people are easily deceived by the sweet talks of the politicians. By listening to them we believe that maybe this time actual progress might take place, maybe this time the people might actually be benefited but no ..... each time they back off from their promises and we feel like jokers for actually believing them . All they care for is power. All they want is personal benefit. They have no concern for public interest. For power they can do anything. Walking over the few corpses and injuries will also not matter to them and this book shows it.

Mupela from Zambia

I honestly think he wrote into the future meaning our world today we are being sweet talked into believing the false ideas set by many leaders his book is an eye opener

Elisa White from US

Tavish from India

Sweta from India

The best book I have ever read.

Karim from Ireland

Its a really good book. It is a perfect book for a class to read together. When I read it it was amazing.

Suranjith from Sri Lanka

Scary in view of the situation we find ourselves in now

Kabiito from Uganda

Animal farm is a book recommended for everyone at school and in society because it is a true reflection(The absolutism of power, greed, subjugation, intimidation and the simplicity of the masses) of what actually happens in the socio_political spheres of life.

Harri from UK

Good book for teens not so much for younger children.

Isba from Pakistan

The best piece of literature.

Rapha�l from France

A brilliant and timeless analyse of the mechanics of bureaucracy, ultimate betrayal of the hopes of the people. Let's pray it remains in the curriculum, for this story talks about power and control in general, not only in a communist system. The worst we could do against this book is to keep on saying "it is only about totalitarianism and the history of the USSR"... Not only, not only.

9.6 /10 from 44 reviews

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Book Review: Animal Farm

"Animal Farm" by George Orwell is about a seemingly normal farm that turns against their farmer. The animals take over the farm with the help of their leaders who are pigs. After all the humans are gone from the farm they continue under the rule of the pigs and create a system of rules to follow as a guideline for their new life. Everything goes well until one of the pigs, Napoleon, uses the dogs he trained to remove the other leader, Snowball, from the animal farm. With Snowball gone Napoleon takes complete control of the farm. He alters the rules made by Snowball, abuses his power, and makes poor decisions that negatively affect the other animals. One of their rules/guidelines was that humans were evil and not to be associated with.

Napoleon breaks that rule many times starting with making a trade of wood with another farm run by a farmer. They get scammed from the exchange with the human, but that doesn't stop Napoleon from dealing with humans. He goes to the extent of not telling the fellow animals the truth and putting all pigs above everyone else. From there things get progressively worse until Napoleon eventually befriends the humans along with the other pigs. They become so much like the humans that it gets to the point that the pigs are basically humans.

I would recommend the book. "Animal Farm" is interesting and in my opinion is in a sense satire, so I really enjoyed it. I read this book because I was planning on reading 1984 by the same author for a BTS theory and wanted to read other books by George Orwell. I kind of could relate to some of the animals because when they disagreed with Napoleon they brought up good points, but no one listened to them. The ending is very surprising and the book isn't predictable.

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• Classic Fiction

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Animal Farm Print on Demand (Paperback) – 18 August 2024

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• Print length 108 pages
• Language English
• Dimensions 12.7 x 0.61 x 17.78 cm
• Publication date 18 August 2024
• ISBN-10 9395221585
• ISBN-13 978-9395221580
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Trove Books (18 August 2024); Newgen DigitalWorks Private Limited
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Print on Demand (Paperback) ‏ : ‎ 108 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9395221585
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9395221580
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ Customer suggested age: 15 years and up
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 12.7 x 0.61 x 17.78 cm
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ India
• Packer ‏ : ‎ Newgen DigitalWorks Private Limited

About the authors

George orwell.

George Orwell is one of England's most famous writers and social commentators. Among his works are the classic political satire Animal Farm and the dystopian nightmare vision Nineteen Eighty-Four. Orwell was also a prolific essayist, and it is for these works that he was perhaps best known during his lifetime. They include Why I Write and Politics and the English Language. His writing is at once insightful, poignant and entertaining, and continues to be read widely all over the world.

Eric Arthur Blair (George Orwell) was born in 1903 in India, where his father worked for the Civil Service. The family moved to England in 1907 and in 1917 Orwell entered Eton, where he contributed regularly to the various college magazines. From 1922 to 1927 he served with the Indian Imperial Police in Burma, an experience that inspired his first novel, Burmese Days (1934). Several years of poverty followed. He lived in Paris for two years before returning to England, where he worked successively as a private tutor, schoolteacher and bookshop assistant, and contributed reviews and articles to a number of periodicals. Down and Out in Paris and London was published in 1933. In 1936 he was commissioned by Victor Gollancz to visit areas of mass unemployment in Lancashire and Yorkshire, and The Road to Wigan Pier (1937) is a powerful description of the poverty he saw there.

At the end of 1936 Orwell went to Spain to fight for the Republicans and was wounded. Homage to Catalonia is his account of the civil war. He was admitted to a sanatorium in 1938 and from then on was never fully fit. He spent six months in Morocco and there wrote Coming Up for Air. During the Second World War he served in the Home Guard and worked for the BBC Eastern Service from 1941 to 1943. As literary editor of the Tribune he contributed a regular page of political and literary commentary, and he also wrote for the Observer and later for the Manchester Evening News. His unique political allegory, Animal Farm was published in 1945, and it was this novel, together with Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949), which brought him world-wide fame.

It was around this time that Orwell's unique political allegory Animal Farm (1945) was published. The novel is recognised as a classic of modern political satire and is simultaneously an engaging story and convincing allegory. It was this novel, together with Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949), which finally brought him world-wide fame. Nineteen Eighty-Four's ominous depiction of a repressive, totalitarian regime shocked contemporary readers, but ensures that the book remains perhaps the preeminent dystopian novel of modern literature.

Orwell's fiercely moral writing has consistently struck a chord with each passing generation. The intense honesty and insight of his essays and non-fiction made Orwell one of the foremost social commentators of his age. Added to this, his ability to construct elaborately imaginative fictional worlds, which he imbued with this acute sense of morality, has undoubtedly assured his contemporary and future relevance.

George Orwell died in London in January 1950.

C. S. Fritz

Casey "C.S." Fritz grew up on a farm in Oregon, where he milked cows and had a pet pig. To escape the endless chores of cleaning chicken coops and watering tomatoes...Casey would draw.

As a young child, Casey's family moved to Arizona. It was there beneath the fiery gaze of the Southwestern sun, that he spent most of his life. Graduating school, marrying the love of his life and having two wild kids. It was also there that C.S. Fritz's work began to take traction with local galleries and art publications.

C.S. Fritz now is an award-winning author and illustrator with published titles such as...

The Cottonmouth Trilogy, Good Night Tales, The Moonman Cometh, Seekers and Good Night Classics! Altogether, Casey has released over 35 books.

Fritz's debut novel, A Fig For All The Devils (horror) released Halloween 2021 - Which was awarded best in horror with the IBPA for 2021 releases, and soon to be a major motion picture!

Lastly, Fritz's latest horror novel, All Creatures Living Beneath The Sun released early 2023.

Customer reviews

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Customers say

Customers find the storyline good, deep, and dark. They also say the political content is perfect, capturing injustice brilliantly. Readers describe the book as simple, technical, and ahead of its time. They find it entertaining and insightful. Opinions are mixed on the writing style, with some finding it genius and others saying it ruin the overall look of the book.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the themes in the book insightful, good, and relevant to today. They also say the book depicts communism through a satirical allegory, making them think about society and leadership. Readers also mention that the book is a visionary and relevant for the current political system.

"...The story is engaging and really makes you think about society and leadership . Definitely a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking story!" Read more

"...This subtitle not just gives a space for philosophical discussions , but it also renders to the story technical perfection...." Read more

"...The introduction of all the animals is neatly weaved allowing readers to gauge their nature and behaviour throughout the story...." Read more

"I loved reading the book and it’s relevant to this day . I would recommend the book for all ages. Must read!" Read more

Customers find the book to be readable, simple, and succinct. They also say the epitaph foregrounds the information of the text and informs the scenario. Readers also say that the book makes it easier to understand communism, misconceptions, rulings, and the story is gripping and relevant till today.

"...The story is engaging and really makes you think about society and leadership. Definitely a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking story!" Read more

"...a space for philosophical discussions, but it also renders to the story technical perfection ...." Read more

"...With a striking combination of plot , philosophy and mockery, George explores what happens when the fusion of human traits and animals’ dexterity..." Read more

"...are the most successful (based on real), they leave us endearing, eloquent and sometimes even funny moments, all thanks to some exquisite..." Read more

Customers find the political content of the book perfect, allegorical, and lively. They also say it captures injustice brilliantly, and never fails to entertain and amaze them. Readers also mention that the book is a brilliant take on the political background and political reform.

"...uses farm animals to symbolize real-life political events is both clever and captivating...." Read more

"...82 PagesISBN: 978-81-933876-4-1"A deft satire on human existence to those breathing vicariously at present and during the..." Read more

"...(based on real), they leave us endearing, eloquent and sometimes even funny moments , all thanks to some exquisite dialogues...." Read more

" Excellent satirical novel of an Era where a particular form of socialism with full contempt of capitalism was born and flourishing...." Read more

Customers find the book entertaining, beautiful, and thought-provoking. They also say it's hard-hitting and satire.

"In the form of a seemingly simple story , Animal farm touches very important part of politics, society and the common people...." Read more

"...to read and understand, but to my contrary believe, it was funny, entertaining and a perfect satire...." Read more

"...The writing is witty, engaging , and thought-provoking, making it an enjoyable read for all ages...." Read more

"...Can be related with various rebellions around the world. Gets a bit of boring in the middle but the end leaves us thinking about the way of the world." Read more

Customers find the storyline good, humorous, and dark. They also appreciate the outstanding flow and satire.

"...It was a really good storyline and goes in depth of Russian history so I would definitely recommend" Read more

" Seriously loved the story line and the way it showed us how dictatorship works!" Read more

"...Nice read.Worthy and interesting plot ." Read more

"...I'm reading it after having heard so much about it, I found the story too simple and too short...." Read more

Customers find the book appropriate for all ages, including children. They also say it's a nightmare for children and bold humor for adults.

"...I would recommend the book for all ages . Must read!" Read more

"...I personally think that it's a book for all ages ...." Read more

"...Nothing more I want to say,just read it.. Appropriate for everyone ,only the perception about the story will vary depending upon the age group...." Read more

"...Highly thought provoking. Recommended for all age groups !..." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the writing style of the book. Some find it awesome and genius, while others say it's dull and old.

"...Reading this book is absolute delight. George Orwell did a great job . Well packaged & Nicely delivered. Highly Recommended." Read more

"...Animal Farm is an amazing work by George Orwell ...." Read more

"...stick the MRP sticker directly on the dust jacket, it ruin the overall look of the book ." Read more

"Its a masterpiece from Orwell . Too deep and too relevant for all times...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the emotional intensity of the book. Some mention that it leaves a very big and powerful impact on the reader, while others say that it was a waste of time.

"...This book had a great impact on me . I will keep my views short and end it up by saying “Pick it up the next chance you get”." Read more

"A book worth every penny. Just unspeakable..... left a deep impact .....just awesome...." Read more

"this review is only on the quality of the book and it is not so impressive . thin pages and sometimes one-page print is seen on next on...." Read more

"...The style of writing is simple, direct, but it achieves a superb effect ...." Read more

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THE GREAT BIG ANIMAL RACE

From the somos8 series.

by José Carlos Román ; illustrated by Julio Antonio Blasco ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 12, 2024

Kindness and friendship are the winners in this tale of animal competition.

Being the fastest isn’t the only way to win.

The yearly animal race is almost here, and all the forest creatures involved have been training in their own way, in part because the route is different every time and no one knows what the new race will be like. Colorful and energetic illustrations show that Rat has been weight training with a giant ball, Frog has been practicing her jumps, Fox has been “working his tail off,” and Rabbit has been running laps. Rabbit’s friend Snail, however, is opting out because he knows from experience that he’ll end up in last place. At the suggestion of her mom, Rabbit decides to help Snail and starts by gathering the other animals together. Each animal has an idea, but Rabbit doesn’t want to be obvious. Then she comes up with a solution that will allow Snail to play to his strengths (first one to reach home first wins!), resulting in a triumph for Snail—the race, sure, but more importantly, because he has “the best friends in the whole world.” Everyone shares in his joy. This celebration of consideration and creativity makes its points loudly and clearly and is ripe for an investigation into and discussion of social-emotional and problem-solving skills.

Pub Date: Nov. 12, 2024

ISBN: 9788410074224

Page Count: 40

Publisher: NubeOcho

Review Posted Online: Aug. 30, 2024

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2024

CHILDREN'S ANIMALS | CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES

Share your opinion of this book

More by José Carlos Román

BOOK REVIEW

by José Carlos Román ; illustrated by Elena Ferrándiz translated by Jon Brokenbrow

by José Carlos Román ; illustrated by Zuriñe Aguirre ; translated by Jon Brokenbrow

CARPENTER'S HELPER

by Sybil Rosen ; illustrated by Camille Garoche ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 16, 2021

Renata’s wren encounter proves magical, one most children could only wish to experience outside of this lovely story.

A home-renovation project is interrupted by a family of wrens, allowing a young girl an up-close glimpse of nature.

Renata and her father enjoy working on upgrading their bathroom, installing a clawfoot bathtub, and cutting a space for a new window. One warm night, after Papi leaves the window space open, two wrens begin making a nest in the bathroom. Rather than seeing it as an unfortunate delay of their project, Renata and Papi decide to let the avian carpenters continue their work. Renata witnesses the birth of four chicks as their rosy eggs split open “like coats that are suddenly too small.” Renata finds at a crucial moment that she can help the chicks learn to fly, even with the bittersweet knowledge that it will only hasten their exits from her life. Rosen uses lively language and well-chosen details to move the story of the baby birds forward. The text suggests the strong bond built by this Afro-Latinx father and daughter with their ongoing project without needing to point it out explicitly, a light touch in a picture book full of delicate, well-drawn moments and precise wording. Garoche’s drawings are impressively detailed, from the nest’s many small bits to the developing first feathers on the chicks and the wall smudges and exposed wiring of the renovation. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-20-inch double-page spreads viewed at actual size.)

Pub Date: March 16, 2021

ISBN: 978-0-593-12320-1

Publisher: Schwartz & Wade/Random

Review Posted Online: Jan. 12, 2021

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 2021

CHILDREN'S ANIMALS | CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES | CHILDREN'S FAMILY

ON THE FIRST DAY OF KINDERGARTEN

by Tish Rabe ; illustrated by Laura Hughes ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 21, 2016

While this is a fairly bland treatment compared to Deborah Lee Rose and Carey Armstrong-Ellis’ The Twelve Days of...

Rabe follows a young girl through her first 12 days of kindergarten in this book based on the familiar Christmas carol.

The typical firsts of school are here: riding the bus, making friends, sliding on the playground slide, counting, sorting shapes, laughing at lunch, painting, singing, reading, running, jumping rope, and going on a field trip. While the days are given ordinal numbers, the song skips the cardinal numbers in the verses, and the rhythm is sometimes off: “On the second day of kindergarten / I thought it was so cool / making lots of friends / and riding the bus to my school!” The narrator is a white brunette who wears either a tunic or a dress each day, making her pretty easy to differentiate from her classmates, a nice mix in terms of race; two students even sport glasses. The children in the ink, paint, and collage digital spreads show a variety of emotions, but most are happy to be at school, and the surroundings will be familiar to those who have made an orientation visit to their own schools.

Pub Date: June 21, 2016

ISBN: 978-0-06-234834-0

Page Count: 32

Publisher: Harper/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: May 3, 2016

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2016

CHILDREN'S CONCEPTS | CHILDREN'S SOCIAL THEMES

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by Tish Rabe ; illustrated by Sarah Jennings

by Tish Rabe ; illustrated by Dan Yaccarino

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