Animal Farm Book Review

Even though the book was interesting and entertaining, I dislike some features of the book. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate the book 4 stars because the story includes themes on violence, lack of equality, and even the corrupt use of power. First of all, brutality is portrayed by Napoleon because he requires innocent animals and even his rivals to confess their crimes and be murdered publicly. For example, according to Animal Farm, the text states, "Immediately the dogs bounded forward, seized four of the pigs by the ear and dragged them, squealing with pain and terror, to Napoleon’s feet. Napoleon now called upon them to confess their crimes. When they had finished their confession, the dogs promptly tore their throats out" This quote proves
For instance, the text states "Nevertheless, some of the animals were disturbed when they heard that the pigs not only took their meals in the kitchen and used the drawing-room as a recreation room, but also slept in the beds. Some days afterwards, it was announced that from now on the pigs would get up an hour later in the mornings than the other animals" This quote illustrates that there is a lack of equality and fairness on Animal Farm since pigs have the privilege of sleeping longer in comfortable beds while the other animals sleep in the barn and wake up earlier. Besides that, as Napoleon grasps absolute power over the farm, his power also corrupts and he becomes hostile towards others. Specifically, one Sunday, it was announced that the hens must surrender their eggs because "Napoleon had accepted, through Whymper, a contract for four hundred eggs a
This book is strongly recommended for middle school students who are interested in learning about the rise of Stalin's dictatorship in Russia in the 1920s because the characters and events in Animal Farm symbolizes historical events and figures in the early 20th century. For example, the novel includes animals revolting against their human owners to represent the Russian citizens starting the Russian Revolution to revolt against their emperor Tzar Nicholas II. In addition, the novel also describes Napoleon's rise to power and his violent actions towards other animals to symbolize how Joseph Stalin rose to power and acted harshly towards the Russians. Therefore, reading this book would give middle school students insight about the transition of life during Tsar Nicholas II's reign to life under Stalin's dictatorship. Additionally, the book would also most likely appeal to middle school students because middle schoolers would find it ironic that when the farm animals rebel to be free from human authority, their conditions become worse because they are oppressed to complete even more work under Napoleon's dictatorship. Ultimately, Animal Farm is an excellent book choice for middle school students who will enjoy this interesting and ironic