Book Reviews by NBPL Teens

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Review by Connor

Post Date:04/01/2023

animal farm book cov

Animal Farm is a famous tale by George Orwell that was first released in 1945. It's a political tale about a group of farm animals who depose their human master and create a society in which the animals govern the land on their own terms. The book is a powerful reflection on the corruption of power, the dangers of lies and propaganda, and individual struggles for freedom in the face of tyranny. Animal Farm was composed during WWII and was inspired by Orwell's experiences with politics and propaganda during this time. The book is now regarded as a classic due to its vivid depiction of societal themes and ideas.

One of the most  powerful aspects of Animal Farm is its powerful critique of the historical and contemporary dangers of tyranny and corruption. The book serves as a stark caution about how those in power can succumb to the temptations of absolute power and become as oppressive as the leaders they strive to depose. This is demonstrated in the tale when some of the animals who despised humans became corrupt and oppressive after gaining power. This message is especially important in today's society, where leaders' personal interests continue to overshadow their people's needs. By emphasizing the dangers of this, Animal Farm encourages readers to hold their world leaders accountable for their actions.

Furthermore, one of the novel's most important topics was the power of propaganda. Following the revolt, the pigs took control of the farm and used propaganda to manipulate and control the other animals. One of their slogans, "Four legs good, two legs bad," helped to simplify human concepts to create a sense of animal unity. They also used propaganda to silence critics who opposed them and to justify their own actions. Because the pigs' propaganda campaigns were so effective, the other animals were often willing to overlook their numerous flaws and continue to support them. Orwell's depiction of propaganda demonstrates both how easily people can be swayed by persuasive rhetoric and how harmful it can be when those in power control the message.

Animal Farm still continues to have relevance to this day. The themes of corruption, propaganda, and power abuse are universal and still pertinent today in a world where corruption and authoritarianism exist. By emphasizing the dangers of these issues, Animal Farm inspires readers to be vigilant and to challenge authority when required.

Although Animal Farm is widely regarded as a significant literary work, it presents a potentially unsettling aspect of human nature. Namely, the novel depicts a bleak and cynical outlook on humanity. The animals' persistent efforts to establish a society founded on principles of fairness and equality are continuously obstructed by the pigs' desire for dominance and authority. The author emphasizes the notion of inherent selfishness and greed in people, which could leave readers feeling disillusioned and discouraged about the possibility of achieving genuine equality and justice.

Overall, Animal Farm is a compelling novel that deserves 4.5 stars. It dives into contemporary topics like corruption and misinformation, making it a modern and fascinating read. Furthermore, its criticism of authoritarianism serves as a cautionary note that is still relevant in today's culture. Yet, some readers may find the story's portrayal of human nature to be unpleasant and disappointing. Some readers may be dismayed by the notion that achieving a truly fair and equal society is unachievable. However, George Orwell's Animal Farm remains a classic novel worth reading for its great narrative and profound themes and ideas.

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