First published 1945
The animals of Manor Farm gather in the barn to hear Old Major, a prize boar, share his vision of a world without human oppression. After Major dies, the pigs Napoleon and Snowball lead a successful rebellion against farmer Mr. Jones. The animals rename their home Animal Farm and establish principles of equality. Initially, all species work together under the motto "All animals are equal." However, the pigs gradually assume leadership roles and begin making decisions for the others. Napoleon drives out Snowball and consolidates power. The pigs start walking upright, wearing clothes, and sleeping in the farmhouse beds they once condemned. They form alliances with neighboring human farmers while the other animals labor under increasingly harsh conditions. The story reveals how noble ideals can be corrupted when power concentrates in the hands of those who claim to represent the common good.
Genres: dystopia, animals, 20th-century
Vibes: dark, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: corruption-of-power, social-commentary
Setting: Manor Farm, Animal Farm
Period: 20th Century
122 pages · Paperback · Addison-Wesley Longman Ltd