Watership Down: A Novel
Now with a new introduction by Madeline Miller, the New York Times bestselling author of The Song of Achilles and Circe. The 50th anniversary edition of Richard Adam's timeless classic, the tale of a band of wild rabbits struggling to hold onto their place in the world--"a classic yarn of discovery and struggle" (The New York Times). A worldwide bestseller for over thirty years, Watership Down is one of the most beloved novels of all time. Set in England's Downs, a once idyllic rural landscape, this stirring tale follows a band of very special creatures on their flight from the intrusion of man and the certain destruction of their home. Led by a stouthearted pair of brothers, they journey from their native Sandleford Warren, through the harrowing trials posed by predators and adversaries, and toward the dream of a mysterious promised land and a more perfect society. "Spellbinding...Marvelous...A taut tale of suspense, hot pursuit and derring-do." --Chicago Tribune
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Community Reviews
My goodness, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The perfect fantasy novel for an animal lover like myself. Not just a bunch of rabbits hopping around eating various plants, Watership Down is so much more. When you read Watership Down, you emerse yourself in a simplistic, yet rather complicated way of life. A classic representation of leadership in creating a just and successful society. Beautifully crafted, an adventurous portrayal of leadership, survival, home and belonging, and the “rabbit spirit”.
The anthropomorphic incorporation and symbolism was very unique and a sweet element. Specifically, the connection between Frith and his messengers and religion in reality, was probably my favorite part. Furthermore, their beliefs and stories serve as an ample tool for their survival. Adam’s also sprinkled his war experience throughout the book which adds a nice touch to the battles the characters face and warren politics.
Although there are quite a few characters throughout the story, Adam’s does a great job at differentiating each of them in a memorable manner, as they each serve a purpose and are important to the story in their own special way. It was easy to feel connected to the story and characters even though there were many.
The prose is delightfully written and immaculately illustrative with insanely vivid depictions, which made for great world building and imagery. I quite literally felt every emotion reading this book.
Watership Down also changed my perspective on nature and wildlife, especially when emersed in it. I would highly recommend this to animal lovers who appreciate a well written, straightforward yet descriptive and engrossing story with notable themes, this is the book for you!
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