Book Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

There's a revolution brewing at Manor Farm. It isn't among jealous family members or disgruntled work hands. No, the desire for change is alive and well in the hearts and minds of the farm's animal population. Angered at their continual mistreatment at the hands of humans, the assorted pigs, horses, sheep, and other four-legged beasts band together in mutiny, rising up en masse to overthrow their oppressors.

Old Major, a prize boar, inspires the mutiny, telling his fellow farm animals about a dream he had in which all animals were united in peaceful harmony, living above the rule of foolish humans. He teaches them "Beasts of England," a stirring anthem proclaiming the glories of a utopian animal society. After Old Major's death, the song becomes a rallying cry, and the animals won't rest until they bring their departed friend's vision to fruition.

The revolution itself is surprisingly easy. The animals catch the humans off guard, driving them from the farm with little difficulty. Their dream realized, the animals must now learn how to live in freedom. Napoleon and Snowball, two prominent pigs, emerge as leaders, instructing the others how to best run the farm and setting down seven key commandments that all animals must follow.

1. Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy.

2. Whatever goes upon four legs, or has wings, is a friend.

3. No animal shall wear clothes.

4. No animal shall sleep in a bed.

5. No animal shall drink alcohol.

6. No animal shall kill any other animal.

7. All animals are equal.