Of Rabbits and Tyrants
In the end, the only thing that matter is, did the books you read matter to you? And this is one that has mattered very much to me. It transcends so many levels; unlike, say, Animal Farm, in which you know you're reading social allegory, this one really catches you unawares, until you're completely enmeshed within the characters' struggle for survival and search for a homeland of their own. Speaks to the depths of the rabbit (and human) condition.
More Than a Children's Book
Watership Down is a classic novel by Richard Adams. The story involves a warren of rabbits, such as rabbits named Hazel, Fiver, Bigwig, Blackberry and Dandelion. Hazel is the protagonist. The story opens as Hazel and his brother, Fiver are taking a walk. Suddenly Fiver bumps into a sign that indicates that someone will be building houses in their warren. Now, Fiver is a rabbit so he can't read but the sign gives him an ominous feeling. He tells Hazel and Hazel takes Fiver to the the Chief Rabbit to tell him about Fiver's foreboding. The Chief Rabbit does not believe them and kicks them out. Hazel and Fiver decide to leave the warren. The only reason Hazel is doing this is because he has complete trust and faith in his brother based on past experiences. ... Read More
Exciting yet still meaningful enough to be a classic
I recently re-read Watership Down: A Novel since my son has to read it for English class. Even though I knew the entire plot, I still couldn't put it down. It was just as fresh and exciting the second time around. The characters are so marvellous you can't help but want them to succeed. I remember that when I read it the first time, I told my mom that I would never be able to look at rabbits the same way again. She told me that the book was really about people. But now, after re-reading the book, I have to disagree. People aren't as likeable as these rabbits. They actually learn from their mistakes.
All time favorite book.
I make a point to read Watership Down once a year. It brings a sense of peace and hope that nothing else can. Snuggle into an overstuffed chair by a wood fire, a glass of champagne in the dead of winter and let Hazel & Bigwig soothe your soul.
The best of the hardcover editions
Of all the editions I have to favor the new cover for the paperback with the beautiful paining of the gate and downs. Not available in hardcover! After much shopping I picked up this hard cover version and was very very happy. A beautifully made book with truly great binding, paper, and cover (with or without the dust jacket). I'd still like to see the modern non-mass market cover in hardcover form but if you are going to gift Watership Down (as you all should) this is the most beautiful and quality printing available. In today's world of cheap books you hold this baby and I actually went "ohh" a really great gift edition.
