Book Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

A definite must read — especially in this day and age.

A few years ago, the only thing I knew about George Orwell was that he’d written 1984, and that it was about the government surveilling its citizens or something. So when I came across a cheap paperback copy of it in Oslo airport a few years back, I bought it and read it.

I think I devoured it.

I liked the story, but what really gripped me was the messages between the lines and the political commentary — which I assume is why anyone likes 1984. I also really liked the way Orwell writes, his choice of words, his humor and his style.

So when someone recommended Animal Farm (and gave me a brief synopsis of what it was about, because honestly, I had never heard of it), I knew I had to read it.

Fast forward to three weeks ago and the book was part of an Audible sale so I got it. I listen to a lot of books when I either work out, walk, run, or work (which also includes walking a lot of the time), and Animal Farm being less than four hours long was perfect for a lazy Friday.

The plot is pretty straightforward: a bunch of animals on a small English farm rebel against their human owner. They imagine an animal utopia where they are free and enjoy a life much better than what they’ve known so far, but of course it quickly descend into something… familiar.

It’s such a great book. It’s thrilling and exciting at times, but also funny and thought provoking. Half of the time it feels like it’s a direct commentary to the way the world and our society works in this exact moment, though I guess it would feel that way whenever you read it, whether it was now or 20 years ago.

But you should read it – if you haven’t read Orwell yet, I’d suggest starting with this and then checking out 1984 later if you like this. It’s really going to make you think. Both of them.

I think I need to check out what else Orwell had written.

Have you read it? What did you think? Let me know in the comments!

As always, if you’re into thrillers you can check out my books here. Thank for the support!