Animal Farm: An essential, best-loved classic (Collins Classics)

First time I've read this book - I had put it off for many years because the words 'classic' and 'political satire' implied to me a heavy, difficult, joyless read. How very wrong I was. Based on the events of the era of Russian communism & Stalin (or so I'm told, as I have no actual knowledge of that period of history), Animal Farm tells the story of the animals of a farm who, fed up of their cruel human owner, long working hours and poor quality of life, decide to run out the humans, rename their farm 'Animal Farm', and be the first farm in the world to operate under animal control only - no interference from humans. The hope here was that all animals would be treated equally, everyone would work their share, and the profit of hard work would go solely back into feeding the animals and improving their own quality of life. 7 commandments are set out for the animals to follow, summed up with the motto 'four legs good, two legs bad'. However, as time progresses the equality that all animals were to be treated with becomes compromised, and the intelligent pigs who quickly became the leaders of the farm become corrupted and turn their backs on the very commandments the Animal Farm was founded on. What surprised me most was how easy this book was to read. For something so intelligent, thought-provoking and educational, the language is basic, and the story captures the imagination almost immediately - you'll find yourself unable to put the book down until the end (which thankfully doesn't take very long at all as this is a short book). I have read comments that Animal Farm should be made compulsory reading in schools, in favour of other literature such as Shakespeare, and I happen to agree. There are important lessons to be learnt from this book, lessons told simply, in unpretentious language, that can inform and change your outlook on life.

Animal Farm by George Orwell is a literary gem that continues to captivate and resonate with readers even decades after its initial publication. This brilliant allegorical novella takes you on a thought-provoking journey into a farm where animals revolt against their human oppressors, only to discover that power corrupts absolutely. Orwell's writing is both accessible and profound, making it a must-read for all ages. The characters, though animals, are brilliantly crafted to represent various facets of human nature and society. As the story unfolds, you'll find yourself drawn into the struggles, triumphs, and ultimately, the tragic consequences of the animals' pursuit of freedom and equality. What truly sets Animal Farm apart is its timeless relevance. Orwell's critique of totalitarianism, propaganda, and the corrupting influence of power is as pertinent today as it was when the book was first published. This book serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of political manipulation and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of oppressive regimes. In addition to its thought-provoking content, Animal Farm is a quick and engaging read. It's perfect for those who appreciate allegorical storytelling that challenges the status quo. Whether you're a literature enthusiast or someone looking to explore the darker aspects of human nature and politics, Animal Farm deserves a place on your bookshelf. It's a powerful, haunting, and brilliantly crafted work that will leave you pondering its message long after you've turned the final page. Highly recommended!

I wanted to read this book because when I was at school I'm pretty sure my English class was the only group that didn't study it, and I always felt a little left out! I felt I was missing out on something not only great, but also something that everyone would understand references to.. but me! Going into this story, I knew the gist of it, and after reading the first chapter, I know it was going to be a quick read. I know why they read it in year 8 - it is such a simple political allegory to follow! However, the simplicity of the text is not to be criticized, because it actually highlights Orwell's genius! To be able to so concisely write about revolution (with particular reference to the Soviet revolution) and yet make it comprehensible to people of varying reading age/ability, backgrounds, and education is remarkable. This is a story with a point - a warning - about particular aspects of revolution, totalitarianism and fascism, and yet both a 10 year old and a 60 year old can get message through the same enjoyment. Like the book or not, it should be recognized for that great feat at least. I did enjoy it, a lot. The accompanying appendixes were also interesting - an insight into what Orwell thought about the censorship of his novella at the early stages of publication, and about literary censorship in general - as well as an interesting personal foreword that Orwell wrote for editions for displaced Ukrainians living in camps in Germany. The introduction by Malcolm Bradbury and the Notes on a Text by Peter Davison were both interesting insights to the reception of the novel, as well as some of the author's thoughts and commentary about the text. Well worth a read, though I chose to read it afterwards because there were a couple of spoilers. Overall, really good, and I will certainly read more Orwell in the future. It turns out I really did miss out all those years ago!

This is not a big book in a regular size. Love Macmillan pocket editions. Looks good, weighs nowt. Fits in a pocket or bag pouch for journeys.

Wow what a book and what a story. The book describes our current situation as humans.

Made me think of America and Donald Trump with such such clear comparisons! A truly forward minded book written so many years ago.

A great read. This book totally takes him a key out of this so-called communist system in Russia. Where people setting up saying everyone would be equal, but the people that setting up were far more equal than everyone else.

Brilliant critique of communism failings 🐖🐽.

Great story! Nothing I say in this review can say anything that has not already been said better by so many people before me. Therefore I will just say that this specific clothbound classic edition is of the quality and beauty worthy of this classic story!

Animal Farm is a very interesting and easy-to-read book, with a story that hooks you right from the start. I really liked how it uses animals to convey profound messages about society, power, and politics. It features memorable characters and offers a lesson that invites reflection even after you’ve finished reading it. It is a short read, yet one packed with meaning. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys intelligent books with thought-provoking messages.

Beautifuly written. Full of wisdom. Tragically ending, describing the loss of democracy which is happening again and again because of the power wielded by an elite who is only enhancing their own interests.

It was a great read. The physical book quality is great for the price.

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