I picked this up for a read along. It was an impulse start at 2am. Read about half then went to bed and finished it just now (3pm). I liked it, but I probably won't read it again. I probably won't think about it much outside of if friends bring it up. I enjoyed 1984 by the same author, but didn't like this one as much. It really was just USSR history told satirical through farm animals. The animals had no real personalities, but were just caricatures of different mindsets and groups in the USSR. I think that was the point, but it wasn't my style.

I will say that though it's based on USSR history, I think parts of it could be relatable to modern places. I live in the US and I saw many similarities around patriotism, nationalism, "farm pride," and history turning to myth. Lots of gaslighting between the Pigs and other animals

Read it if it sounds good to you, but it's definitely not a must read for me

This was an incredibly thought-provoking book from start to finish and something that I can see myself revisiting in the future.

I went into this knowing it was an allegory for Stalin's Russia, but knowing little about the USSR, I didn't know how that would present. I found it most interesting that we see a lot of Napoleon's early tactics in the politics of today, especially right-wing groups, I also find this parallel to be deeply unsettling in nature, and and wonder how long it will be before we are like the other farm animals of this book, if our real-world politics continue down the path they are on.

On a more personal note, I saw a lot of my past self within the character of Boxer, as well as a lot of people no longer in my life in Napoleon's character. It was slightly disconcerting as such an animal lover myself to draw these comparisons, but it did remind me of how far I've come in the past few years.

To end on a lighter note, I enjoyed reading about the dynamic between Boxer and Benjamin, and find myself wondering if the intention was to portray a queer love between the two male characters, or if that was just my brain. I did also find the characterisation of the cat to be perfect throughout.

Isn’t it ironic how I didn’t feel surprised because the topic in this book is still relevant and pertinent to today’s matters in so many ways? Well, it somehow scares me, not going to lie. Even still, the writing style in this book is something that I adore, because of how in the world, real issues like this or whatever you call it can stay it still leaves traces of faery myths even though decades have passed— Providing a more accessible means of comprehending communism, its principles, and the reasons behind its downfall, without requiring one to study its past. Yes, the writing and the entire characters are so thoughtful and reflective. It is unquestionably a must-read for everyone, and this book is well worth your time whether you read it quickly or analyse it in depth.

Had to read this for school, but I've been wanting to read this for ages. I always love a good animal story and this was really chilling and tense to read through. The short length works really well and the metaphors are crazy.