Animal Farm by George Orwell invites readers into a barnyard revolution with promises of equality and freedom—but instead reveals the dark realities of power and corruption. Follow the story of a group of animals who overthrow their human farmer to establish a society of their own, only to find their dreams betrayed. Through the rise and fall of Animal Farm, Orwell explores themes of justice, propaganda, and the cycles of oppression that often follow revolutions.
 
Animal Farm is an enduring exploration of the dynamics of power and equality, making it the perfect centerpiece for critical discussions about history, politics, and human nature. This study guide also includes a creative writing project where students will craft their own allegorical stories. This unique approach allows them to apply Orwell’s lessons to modern events, expressing their perspectives through storytelling.
 
This is the third book in our thematic series for Level 7-8. The Power We Hold invites seventh and eighth grade students to explore the many forms of power that shape our world, from personal abilities to social influence and the power of storytelling itself. Through this series, students will consider the complex dynamics of power: how it is gained, challenged, and wielded for both good and ill.
 
Each story in this series features characters navigating the complexities of power in their unique circumstances—whether it’s discovering unexpected abilities and using them to protect others, grappling with the tension between leadership and oppression, or understanding the profound influence of language and narrative. The thematic core encourages students to examine how power can be used to unite or divide, to inspire or control, and how it evolves in different contexts and over time.
 
The Power We Hold challenges students to reflect on the forces that shape their own lives and communities, encouraging them to consider how they can harness their own unique strengths, voices, and influence to bring about meaningful change.
 
This complete novel study guide provides everything you need to bring Animal Farm into your homeschool or classroom (except for a copy of the book).
It includes:
 
Thought Questions
Literary Analysis
Creative Writing Project
Historical Connections
And more!
 
Hearth & Story’s novel and creative writing guide for Animal Farm is perfect for sparking creativity, inspiring critical thinking, and encouraging students to see the enduring relevance of Orwell’s allegory today.