|
Browse categories
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
|
|
|
 |
|
The Grapes of Wrath
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
|
*Amazon: £4.35
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can ever see things in the same way after reading this book. The story of the Joads and America at that time will stay with me forever. Steinbeck is the very essence of great literature.
Genius in black and white, 13 Feb 2008
Having just slated Pride & Prejudice I would like to set the record straight and announce my undying love for this book.
It is a work of pure, raw, tense, teeth-clenched, beauty.
Has the whole gamut of human emotions ever been so evocatively put in print? I doubt it.
Magnificent.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can ever see things in the same way after reading this book. The story of the Joads and America at that time will stay with me forever. Steinbeck is the very essence of great literature.
Genius in black and white, 13 Feb 2008
Having just slated Pride & Prejudice I would like to set the record straight and announce my undying love for this book.
It is a work of pure, raw, tense, teeth-clenched, beauty.
Has the whole gamut of human emotions ever been so evocatively put in print? I doubt it.
Magnificent.
One of the most popular books in American Literature-and for good reason!, 12 Oct 2008
This wonderful book is one of the most popular books written by Nobel prize winner-John Steinbeck.
It is also probably one of the most popular books in American Literature.
Set during The Great Depression,The story is about two migrant farm workers-George Milton(who is a cynical man) and Lennie Small(who is very big,strong but mentally disabled and reliant on George to look after him) and how they dream of owning their own piece of land.
Due to something Lennie has done(which was actually sort of a misunderstanding),the pair must go to a ranch in Soledad,California, to make money and escape the trouble they are in.
The book is an amazing tale of friendship and the heartbreaking thing George must do at the end to save his friend Lennie is so touching.
I read this book for GCSE and it is now one of my favourite's.
It is a definite 'must read' and I would recommend it 100%.
A touching story of friendship, 16 Sep 2008
This is a beautifully written and very touching short story (at around 100 pages it's a quick read) about friendship in very difficult circumstances. There was a touch of a misogynist but as I haven't read any of Steinbecks other novels this may have just been a necessary portrayal of the female character. I would recemmend this.
Brilliant American Novel, 29 May 2008
I have just finished this book with my Special educational needs English group, they undertood so much of this book and loved it more than i thought possible, this book goes to show that here are greater hidden depths within us all, and some times we pre-judge wrongly. And some times all things are inevitable
A sad and moving tale, 28 Oct 2007
In this short novel, Steinbeck chose two main characters. They are two wandering labourers, George Milton and Lennie Small. The former is the more intelligent one, a small and strong man with sharp features. The latter is rather a simpleton with a huge body and a shapeless face and he moves his feet like a bear moves its paws.
They both dream of saving enough money to buy their own modest farm but because Lennie is both clumsy and strong he always manages to get involved in some mischief wherever he can find some work. So George has to keep a constant vigil on Lennie - particularly when there are women around - in order to avoid disaster.
Steinbeck's remarkable achievement is to show in a short novel the pathetic way of life of two simple minded men and that of peasants in general in rural America in the 1930s. The dialogues are a delight to read because the author renders the characters' accent so accurately.
Compelling, 10 Oct 2007
Of Mice and men is one of the most beautiful stories about friendship. The story is about two Americans. The thoughts and actions of the two southern are made open for the reader to enjoy and judge.
The favorite character in the book is Lenny. He came out in the story as and was innocent person with a mental defect. It reminded me somehow of Dostoyevsky's THE IDIOT. The amazing thing about this book is that not a lot of books are based on such unique characters. Another attractive aspect of Lenny is his physical strength and hardworking nature. Yet, despite his meek nature, he was dangerous in the sense that he even killed a woman out of fear.
Steinbeck successfully created a philosophical twist to life through this story by bringing to life strong but vulnerable characters that we all can relate to.Also recommended: USURPER AND OTHERS, THE DA VINCI CODE , UNION MOUJIK because of their settings and characters.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can ever see things in the same way after reading this book. The story of the Joads and America at that time will stay with me forever. Steinbeck is the very essence of great literature.
Genius in black and white, 13 Feb 2008
Having just slated Pride & Prejudice I would like to set the record straight and announce my undying love for this book.
It is a work of pure, raw, tense, teeth-clenched, beauty.
Has the whole gamut of human emotions ever been so evocatively put in print? I doubt it.
Magnificent.
One of the most popular books in American Literature-and for good reason!, 12 Oct 2008
This wonderful book is one of the most popular books written by Nobel prize winner-John Steinbeck.
It is also probably one of the most popular books in American Literature.
Set during The Great Depression,The story is about two migrant farm workers-George Milton(who is a cynical man) and Lennie Small(who is very big,strong but mentally disabled and reliant on George to look after him) and how they dream of owning their own piece of land.
Due to something Lennie has done(which was actually sort of a misunderstanding),the pair must go to a ranch in Soledad,California, to make money and escape the trouble they are in.
The book is an amazing tale of friendship and the heartbreaking thing George must do at the end to save his friend Lennie is so touching.
I read this book for GCSE and it is now one of my favourite's.
It is a definite 'must read' and I would recommend it 100%.
A touching story of friendship, 16 Sep 2008
This is a beautifully written and very touching short story (at around 100 pages it's a quick read) about friendship in very difficult circumstances. There was a touch of a misogynist but as I haven't read any of Steinbecks other novels this may have just been a necessary portrayal of the female character. I would recemmend this.
Brilliant American Novel, 29 May 2008
I have just finished this book with my Special educational needs English group, they undertood so much of this book and loved it more than i thought possible, this book goes to show that here are greater hidden depths within us all, and some times we pre-judge wrongly. And some times all things are inevitable
A sad and moving tale, 28 Oct 2007
In this short novel, Steinbeck chose two main characters. They are two wandering labourers, George Milton and Lennie Small. The former is the more intelligent one, a small and strong man with sharp features. The latter is rather a simpleton with a huge body and a shapeless face and he moves his feet like a bear moves its paws.
They both dream of saving enough money to buy their own modest farm but because Lennie is both clumsy and strong he always manages to get involved in some mischief wherever he can find some work. So George has to keep a constant vigil on Lennie - particularly when there are women around - in order to avoid disaster.
Steinbeck's remarkable achievement is to show in a short novel the pathetic way of life of two simple minded men and that of peasants in general in rural America in the 1930s. The dialogues are a delight to read because the author renders the characters' accent so accurately.
Compelling, 10 Oct 2007
Of Mice and men is one of the most beautiful stories about friendship. The story is about two Americans. The thoughts and actions of the two southern are made open for the reader to enjoy and judge.
The favorite character in the book is Lenny. He came out in the story as and was innocent person with a mental defect. It reminded me somehow of Dostoyevsky's THE IDIOT. The amazing thing about this book is that not a lot of books are based on such unique characters. Another attractive aspect of Lenny is his physical strength and hardworking nature. Yet, despite his meek nature, he was dangerous in the sense that he even killed a woman out of fear.
Steinbeck successfully created a philosophical twist to life through this story by bringing to life strong but vulnerable characters that we all can relate to.Also recommended: USURPER AND OTHERS, THE DA VINCI CODE , UNION MOUJIK because of their settings and characters.
Really hits the spot, 05 Mar 2008
You know those phases you go through when the novels you read are enjoyable enough at the time but a few days later you've more or less forgotten them? I was going through one of those phases and moaned about it to the lady at the library desk. She asked if I had read much Steinbeck. I replied that I had read a few at secondary school, some 35 years ago.
And so I borrowed East of Eden on her recommendation, and absolutely loved it. It's a huge, chunky, sprawling, messy epic (which incidentally is not as popular with U.S Amazon reviewers as it is here) spanning generations. Other reviewers have outlined the plot so I won't repeat it. I know part of the novel was made into a film, but I think it would make a wonderful, lengthy, slightly soapy TV drama series. It has that feel to it.
Steinbeck's writing style has been criticised, and it is true that in places it feels rather clumsy and laboured. On the other hand, in places it is elegant and poetic, especially in the descriptions of nature. However, for me, the power of Steinbeck's storytelling abilities and vivid characterisation more than compensated for any faults in the quality of the writing.
It's the perfect antidote to flimsy, insubstantial novels and writing and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
A book to be savoured, 08 Feb 2008
At around 500 pages, this is quite a big read. As things turn out, it paces itself nicely. Steinbeck's delivery is thoughtful and thought-provoking. He takes all the time he needs to paint the scenery and develop each set of characters. This is accomplished quite beautifully in places. Then the tempo can quicken and the reader feels a sense of anticipation - or foreboding when the ruthless Cathy/Kate is involved. She is clinical and calculating, damaged and damaging. Other characters range from unfulfilled dreamers to arch-pragmatists. I found this book totally absorbing, even more than the excellent Grapes of Wrath, and am now into my next Steinbeck: Cannery Row. I have a strong feeling it won't be the last!
North of Perfection, 11 Feb 2007
EoE is the story of three generations of a family ( the Trasks ). It's set against the backdrop of the growth and development of America as a nation - taking in the Civil War ( in the distance ), the conquest of Native Americans and finally the First World War. The story starts in the East but mostly unfolds in California's Salinas valley - mirroring the great push west. Finally in the background we hear the sound of society moving from agriculture to industry.
It's a modern day telling of one of the oldest stories in the world - that of Cain and Abel - which is retold twice really. You can view the book as simply a great story well told, or a philosophical examination of the nature of destiny and the extent to which a man may truly make his own life. The great thing is that the book rises to meet the needs of the reader - you don't having to consider it as a moral treatise or an expansion of a 'great theme' but if you so wish you may.
The simple wisdom of the book is one of its great strengths. For example
"And it never failed that during the dry years the people forgot about the rich years, and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years. It was always that way" - this amongst the first description we have of the Salinas valley.
"And of course they were descended from the ancient kings of Ireland, as every Irishman is" - this of old Sam Hamilton ( see later ).
Another aspect of its appeal is the way it paints the life of the time - e.g. the matter of fact discussion of brothels, and the utterly brilliant description of a human birth - certainly the best I've ever read.
Finally there is the dark charm of Cathy - one of the central characters. For me she is one of the most memorable characters in fiction. Human, but with no warmth inside we can see how a person with no 'gene for goodness' might act. The triumph is the lack of histrionics or sensation. She wrecks lives and why - well 'there are no reasons' and what could be darker than that.
We should not forget the excellent cast of characters - Sam Hamilton, the everyman patriach, and Lee the sagelike manservant, Abra the girl struggling with being put on a pedestal, Joe who 'just needs the breaks' and many more.
I really can't recommend this book enough and believe it to be a magnificent triumph.
East of Eden, 24 Jan 2007
This is book I recomend to everyone. Its has to be read, just get threw the first 20 pages and your in there. Its got the best charactors I wish where realy people. I still havent found anything quite like it. You just have to read it!
Utterly immersive...a compelling read, 09 Aug 2006
About fourty or so pages into East of Eden it dawned on me; this book is nothing like Of Mice and Men. And how relieved I was at this insightful revelation!
Yes, Of Mice and Men is a nice, charming novelette. But Of Mice and Men lacks the certain complexity of characters and incredible literary construction that makes East of Eden so fantastic. Not to mention the astoundingly subtle allegorical references and in-depth characterisation.
And that is what really earns East of Eden five gold and shiny stars; characterisation. By the end of this, dare I say epic, novel, we have really been drawn in, both emotionally and physically, to the lives of the two Californian families. How I just earn for two novels tracking the lives of Cathy, the estranged and manipulative brothel owner/prostitute, and Lee, the intellectually sophisticated and socially aware slave.
East of Eden really displays Steinbeck at his best. Detailed, beautifully written and so, so thought-provoking. An absolute gem and a delicious treat for any fan of early 20th century literature.
|
|
|
 |
|
The Grapes of Wrath
Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days
*Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
|
*Amazon: £3.29
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can ever see things in the same way after reading this book. The story of the Joads and America at that time will stay with me forever. Steinbeck is the very essence of great literature.
Genius in black and white, 13 Feb 2008
Having just slated Pride & Prejudice I would like to set the record straight and announce my undying love for this book.
It is a work of pure, raw, tense, teeth-clenched, beauty.
Has the whole gamut of human emotions ever been so evocatively put in print? I doubt it.
Magnificent.
One of the most popular books in American Literature-and for good reason!, 12 Oct 2008
This wonderful book is one of the most popular books written by Nobel prize winner-John Steinbeck.
It is also probably one of the most popular books in American Literature.
Set during The Great Depression,The story is about two migrant farm workers-George Milton(who is a cynical man) and Lennie Small(who is very big,strong but mentally disabled and reliant on George to look after him) and how they dream of owning their own piece of land.
Due to something Lennie has done(which was actually sort of a misunderstanding),the pair must go to a ranch in Soledad,California, to make money and escape the trouble they are in.
The book is an amazing tale of friendship and the heartbreaking thing George must do at the end to save his friend Lennie is so touching.
I read this book for GCSE and it is now one of my favourite's.
It is a definite 'must read' and I would recommend it 100%.
A touching story of friendship, 16 Sep 2008
This is a beautifully written and very touching short story (at around 100 pages it's a quick read) about friendship in very difficult circumstances. There was a touch of a misogynist but as I haven't read any of Steinbecks other novels this may have just been a necessary portrayal of the female character. I would recemmend this.
Brilliant American Novel, 29 May 2008
I have just finished this book with my Special educational needs English group, they undertood so much of this book and loved it more than i thought possible, this book goes to show that here are greater hidden depths within us all, and some times we pre-judge wrongly. And some times all things are inevitable
A sad and moving tale, 28 Oct 2007
In this short novel, Steinbeck chose two main characters. They are two wandering labourers, George Milton and Lennie Small. The former is the more intelligent one, a small and strong man with sharp features. The latter is rather a simpleton with a huge body and a shapeless face and he moves his feet like a bear moves its paws.
They both dream of saving enough money to buy their own modest farm but because Lennie is both clumsy and strong he always manages to get involved in some mischief wherever he can find some work. So George has to keep a constant vigil on Lennie - particularly when there are women around - in order to avoid disaster.
Steinbeck's remarkable achievement is to show in a short novel the pathetic way of life of two simple minded men and that of peasants in general in rural America in the 1930s. The dialogues are a delight to read because the author renders the characters' accent so accurately.
Compelling, 10 Oct 2007
Of Mice and men is one of the most beautiful stories about friendship. The story is about two Americans. The thoughts and actions of the two southern are made open for the reader to enjoy and judge.
The favorite character in the book is Lenny. He came out in the story as and was innocent person with a mental defect. It reminded me somehow of Dostoyevsky's THE IDIOT. The amazing thing about this book is that not a lot of books are based on such unique characters. Another attractive aspect of Lenny is his physical strength and hardworking nature. Yet, despite his meek nature, he was dangerous in the sense that he even killed a woman out of fear.
Steinbeck successfully created a philosophical twist to life through this story by bringing to life strong but vulnerable characters that we all can relate to.Also recommended: USURPER AND OTHERS, THE DA VINCI CODE , UNION MOUJIK because of their settings and characters.
Really hits the spot, 05 Mar 2008
You know those phases you go through when the novels you read are enjoyable enough at the time but a few days later you've more or less forgotten them? I was going through one of those phases and moaned about it to the lady at the library desk. She asked if I had read much Steinbeck. I replied that I had read a few at secondary school, some 35 years ago.
And so I borrowed East of Eden on her recommendation, and absolutely loved it. It's a huge, chunky, sprawling, messy epic (which incidentally is not as popular with U.S Amazon reviewers as it is here) spanning generations. Other reviewers have outlined the plot so I won't repeat it. I know part of the novel was made into a film, but I think it would make a wonderful, lengthy, slightly soapy TV drama series. It has that feel to it.
Steinbeck's writing style has been criticised, and it is true that in places it feels rather clumsy and laboured. On the other hand, in places it is elegant and poetic, especially in the descriptions of nature. However, for me, the power of Steinbeck's storytelling abilities and vivid characterisation more than compensated for any faults in the quality of the writing.
It's the perfect antidote to flimsy, insubstantial novels and writing and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
A book to be savoured, 08 Feb 2008
At around 500 pages, this is quite a big read. As things turn out, it paces itself nicely. Steinbeck's delivery is thoughtful and thought-provoking. He takes all the time he needs to paint the scenery and develop each set of characters. This is accomplished quite beautifully in places. Then the tempo can quicken and the reader feels a sense of anticipation - or foreboding when the ruthless Cathy/Kate is involved. She is clinical and calculating, damaged and damaging. Other characters range from unfulfilled dreamers to arch-pragmatists. I found this book totally absorbing, even more than the excellent Grapes of Wrath, and am now into my next Steinbeck: Cannery Row. I have a strong feeling it won't be the last!
North of Perfection, 11 Feb 2007
EoE is the story of three generations of a family ( the Trasks ). It's set against the backdrop of the growth and development of America as a nation - taking in the Civil War ( in the distance ), the conquest of Native Americans and finally the First World War. The story starts in the East but mostly unfolds in California's Salinas valley - mirroring the great push west. Finally in the background we hear the sound of society moving from agriculture to industry.
It's a modern day telling of one of the oldest stories in the world - that of Cain and Abel - which is retold twice really. You can view the book as simply a great story well told, or a philosophical examination of the nature of destiny and the extent to which a man may truly make his own life. The great thing is that the book rises to meet the needs of the reader - you don't having to consider it as a moral treatise or an expansion of a 'great theme' but if you so wish you may.
The simple wisdom of the book is one of its great strengths. For example
"And it never failed that during the dry years the people forgot about the rich years, and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years. It was always that way" - this amongst the first description we have of the Salinas valley.
"And of course they were descended from the ancient kings of Ireland, as every Irishman is" - this of old Sam Hamilton ( see later ).
Another aspect of its appeal is the way it paints the life of the time - e.g. the matter of fact discussion of brothels, and the utterly brilliant description of a human birth - certainly the best I've ever read.
Finally there is the dark charm of Cathy - one of the central characters. For me she is one of the most memorable characters in fiction. Human, but with no warmth inside we can see how a person with no 'gene for goodness' might act. The triumph is the lack of histrionics or sensation. She wrecks lives and why - well 'there are no reasons' and what could be darker than that.
We should not forget the excellent cast of characters - Sam Hamilton, the everyman patriach, and Lee the sagelike manservant, Abra the girl struggling with being put on a pedestal, Joe who 'just needs the breaks' and many more.
I really can't recommend this book enough and believe it to be a magnificent triumph.
East of Eden, 24 Jan 2007
This is book I recomend to everyone. Its has to be read, just get threw the first 20 pages and your in there. Its got the best charactors I wish where realy people. I still havent found anything quite like it. You just have to read it!
Utterly immersive...a compelling read, 09 Aug 2006
About fourty or so pages into East of Eden it dawned on me; this book is nothing like Of Mice and Men. And how relieved I was at this insightful revelation!
Yes, Of Mice and Men is a nice, charming novelette. But Of Mice and Men lacks the certain complexity of characters and incredible literary construction that makes East of Eden so fantastic. Not to mention the astoundingly subtle allegorical references and in-depth characterisation.
And that is what really earns East of Eden five gold and shiny stars; characterisation. By the end of this, dare I say epic, novel, we have really been drawn in, both emotionally and physically, to the lives of the two Californian families. How I just earn for two novels tracking the lives of Cathy, the estranged and manipulative brothel owner/prostitute, and Lee, the intellectually sophisticated and socially aware slave.
East of Eden really displays Steinbeck at his best. Detailed, beautifully written and so, so thought-provoking. An absolute gem and a delicious treat for any fan of early 20th century literature.
The Grapes Of Wrath, 03 Oct 2008
This is a powerful, beautiful book and one that should be read by everyone irrespective of age or gender. It's tight, evocative language moves you to your core and stays with you long after the book has finished. The frustrations and anger the families of dust-bowl era America must have felt are made starkly clear and the might and sway of corporations was evident even back when this book was written. An immensely readable and powerful novel that will leave you enriched and moved.
A book everyone should read, 26 Jan 2008
This book is so massive - its influence can be seen through artists such as Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Rage Against the Machine, etc. - and that is just music!
A simple story based around one family moving out to California to escape the Dust Bowl of the 1930's mid-West America. What they found in the beautiful country was abuse, harassment, exploitation and starvation. Faced every day with harsh decisions, there is nowhere to turn for help but within the family and those like them. There is a realization that to fight the rich landowners, and the authorities who support them, the immigrants must organize themselves. Any attempts to do so in the book are cruelly suppressed and fail, but the hope, the only hope, is left hanging...
Ironic then that this 'idealism' originated in America and continue to inspired so many there in the heart of the world's largest capitalist economy.
But the political themes of workers rights, justice and immigration are not the only rich aspects exposed by the story...What happens when we are faced with changing circumstances? How important are the roles of women in leading and protecting the family? How much of our position and identity come from where we live, what we own, what we do? All of these issues are still are relevant today and will be tomorrow.
I guess it is a bad idea to force people to read books, but this certainly is a book everyone should read!
Compulsive Reading !!, 07 Jun 2007
Steinbeck has the gift of being able to describe his characters in immense detail without instilling boredom in the reader. You can actually "see" the character he describes.....this book is a work of art.
Gruelling but good, 09 Jan 2007
Grapes of Wrath is a gruelling story of the plight of the Joad family. It certainly makes you think about how badly treated these people were in what was suppossed to be a civilized country. There's certainly no happy ending. In fact I found the story petered out rather than came to a satisfactory conclusion.
At times the prose is beautiful and the characters are developed well throughout the story. I found the social commentary chapters a bit strange and didn't feel they added that much. 100 pages too many perhaps.
I know it's regarded as a classic but I can't rate it more than 3 stars because overall I didn't love it.
Okay, 18 Jul 2004
This book details the story of the Joad family and their travelling to the West in search of jobs. I did like this book, but it isn't one of my favourites. I can see why it is a classic, but personally there are many other books I prefer.
|
|
|
 |
American Writers (The Spoken Word)
|
John SteinbeckF Scott FitzgeraldGertrude SteinArthur MillerRaymond ChandlerSinclair LewisPearl BuckLillian HellmanRalph Ellison;
2008-10-22;
|
Usually dispatched within 9 to 14 days
|
Amazon: £16.96
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can ever see things in the same way after reading this book. The story of the Joads and America at that time will stay with me forever. Steinbeck is the very essence of great literature.
Genius in black and white, 13 Feb 2008
Having just slated Pride & Prejudice I would like to set the record straight and announce my undying love for this book.
It is a work of pure, raw, tense, teeth-clenched, beauty.
Has the whole gamut of human emotions ever been so evocatively put in print? I doubt it.
Magnificent.
One of the most popular books in American Literature-and for good reason!, 12 Oct 2008
This wonderful book is one of the most popular books written by Nobel prize winner-John Steinbeck.
It is also probably one of the most popular books in American Literature.
Set during The Great Depression,The story is about two migrant farm workers-George Milton(who is a cynical man) and Lennie Small(who is very big,strong but mentally disabled and reliant on George to look after him) and how they dream of owning their own piece of land.
Due to something Lennie has done(which was actually sort of a misunderstanding),the pair must go to a ranch in Soledad,California, to make money and escape the trouble they are in.
The book is an amazing tale of friendship and the heartbreaking thing George must do at the end to save his friend Lennie is so touching.
I read this book for GCSE and it is now one of my favourite's.
It is a definite 'must read' and I would recommend it 100%.
A touching story of friendship, 16 Sep 2008
This is a beautifully written and very touching short story (at around 100 pages it's a quick read) about friendship in very difficult circumstances. There was a touch of a misogynist but as I haven't read any of Steinbecks other novels this may have just been a necessary portrayal of the female character. I would recemmend this.
Brilliant American Novel, 29 May 2008
I have just finished this book with my Special educational needs English group, they undertood so much of this book and loved it more than i thought possible, this book goes to show that here are greater hidden depths within us all, and some times we pre-judge wrongly. And some times all things are inevitable
A sad and moving tale, 28 Oct 2007
In this short novel, Steinbeck chose two main characters. They are two wandering labourers, George Milton and Lennie Small. The former is the more intelligent one, a small and strong man with sharp features. The latter is rather a simpleton with a huge body and a shapeless face and he moves his feet like a bear moves its paws.
They both dream of saving enough money to buy their own modest farm but because Lennie is both clumsy and strong he always manages to get involved in some mischief wherever he can find some work. So George has to keep a constant vigil on Lennie - particularly when there are women around - in order to avoid disaster.
Steinbeck's remarkable achievement is to show in a short novel the pathetic way of life of two simple minded men and that of peasants in general in rural America in the 1930s. The dialogues are a delight to read because the author renders the characters' accent so accurately.
Compelling, 10 Oct 2007
Of Mice and men is one of the most beautiful stories about friendship. The story is about two Americans. The thoughts and actions of the two southern are made open for the reader to enjoy and judge.
The favorite character in the book is Lenny. He came out in the story as and was innocent person with a mental defect. It reminded me somehow of Dostoyevsky's THE IDIOT. The amazing thing about this book is that not a lot of books are based on such unique characters. Another attractive aspect of Lenny is his physical strength and hardworking nature. Yet, despite his meek nature, he was dangerous in the sense that he even killed a woman out of fear.
Steinbeck successfully created a philosophical twist to life through this story by bringing to life strong but vulnerable characters that we all can relate to.Also recommended: USURPER AND OTHERS, THE DA VINCI CODE , UNION MOUJIK because of their settings and characters.
Really hits the spot, 05 Mar 2008
You know those phases you go through when the novels you read are enjoyable enough at the time but a few days later you've more or less forgotten them? I was going through one of those phases and moaned about it to the lady at the library desk. She asked if I had read much Steinbeck. I replied that I had read a few at secondary school, some 35 years ago.
And so I borrowed East of Eden on her recommendation, and absolutely loved it. It's a huge, chunky, sprawling, messy epic (which incidentally is not as popular with U.S Amazon reviewers as it is here) spanning generations. Other reviewers have outlined the plot so I won't repeat it. I know part of the novel was made into a film, but I think it would make a wonderful, lengthy, slightly soapy TV drama series. It has that feel to it.
Steinbeck's writing style has been criticised, and it is true that in places it feels rather clumsy and laboured. On the other hand, in places it is elegant and poetic, especially in the descriptions of nature. However, for me, the power of Steinbeck's storytelling abilities and vivid characterisation more than compensated for any faults in the quality of the writing.
It's the perfect antidote to flimsy, insubstantial novels and writing and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
A book to be savoured, 08 Feb 2008
At around 500 pages, this is quite a big read. As things turn out, it paces itself nicely. Steinbeck's delivery is thoughtful and thought-provoking. He takes all the time he needs to paint the scenery and develop each set of characters. This is accomplished quite beautifully in places. Then the tempo can quicken and the reader feels a sense of anticipation - or foreboding when the ruthless Cathy/Kate is involved. She is clinical and calculating, damaged and damaging. Other characters range from unfulfilled dreamers to arch-pragmatists. I found this book totally absorbing, even more than the excellent Grapes of Wrath, and am now into my next Steinbeck: Cannery Row. I have a strong feeling it won't be the last!
North of Perfection, 11 Feb 2007
EoE is the story of three generations of a family ( the Trasks ). It's set against the backdrop of the growth and development of America as a nation - taking in the Civil War ( in the distance ), the conquest of Native Americans and finally the First World War. The story starts in the East but mostly unfolds in California's Salinas valley - mirroring the great push west. Finally in the background we hear the sound of society moving from agriculture to industry.
It's a modern day telling of one of the oldest stories in the world - that of Cain and Abel - which is retold twice really. You can view the book as simply a great story well told, or a philosophical examination of the nature of destiny and the extent to which a man may truly make his own life. The great thing is that the book rises to meet the needs of the reader - you don't having to consider it as a moral treatise or an expansion of a 'great theme' but if you so wish you may.
The simple wisdom of the book is one of its great strengths. For example
"And it never failed that during the dry years the people forgot about the rich years, and during the wet years they lost all memory of the dry years. It was always that way" - this amongst the first description we have of the Salinas valley.
"And of course they were descended from the ancient kings of Ireland, as every Irishman is" - this of old Sam Hamilton ( see later ).
Another aspect of its appeal is the way it paints the life of the time - e.g. the matter of fact discussion of brothels, and the utterly brilliant description of a human birth - certainly the best I've ever read.
Finally there is the dark charm of Cathy - one of the central characters. For me she is one of the most memorable characters in fiction. Human, but with no warmth inside we can see how a person with no 'gene for goodness' might act. The triumph is the lack of histrionics or sensation. She wrecks lives and why - well 'there are no reasons' and what could be darker than that.
We should not forget the excellent cast of characters - Sam Hamilton, the everyman patriach, and Lee the sagelike manservant, Abra the girl struggling with being put on a pedestal, Joe who 'just needs the breaks' and many more.
I really can't recommend this book enough and believe it to be a magnificent triumph.
East of Eden, 24 Jan 2007
This is book I recomend to everyone. Its has to be read, just get threw the first 20 pages and your in there. Its got the best charactors I wish where realy people. I still havent found anything quite like it. You just have to read it!
Utterly immersive...a compelling read, 09 Aug 2006
About fourty or so pages into East of Eden it dawned on me; this book is nothing like Of Mice and Men. And how relieved I was at this insightful revelation!
Yes, Of Mice and Men is a nice, charming novelette. But Of Mice and Men lacks the certain complexity of characters and incredible literary construction that makes East of Eden so fantastic. Not to mention the astoundingly subtle allegorical references and in-depth characterisation.
And that is what really earns East of Eden five gold and shiny stars; characterisation. By the end of this, dare I say epic, novel, we have really been drawn in, both emotionally and physically, to the lives of the two Californian families. How I just earn for two novels tracking the lives of Cathy, the estranged and manipulative brothel owner/prostitute, and Lee, the intellectually sophisticated and socially aware slave.
East of Eden really displays Steinbeck at his best. Detailed, beautifully written and so, so thought-provoking. An absolute gem and a delicious treat for any fan of early 20th century literature.
The Grapes Of Wrath, 03 Oct 2008
This is a powerful, beautiful book and one that should be read by everyone irrespective of age or gender. It's tight, evocative language moves you to your core and stays with you long after the book has finished. The frustrations and anger the families of dust-bowl era America must have felt are made starkly clear and the might and sway of corporations was evident even back when this book was written. An immensely readable and powerful novel that will leave you enriched and moved.
A book everyone should read, 26 Jan 2008
This book is so massive - its influence can be seen through artists such as Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Rage Against the Machine, etc. - and that is just music!
A simple story based around one family moving out to California to escape the Dust Bowl of the 1930's mid-West America. What they found in the beautiful country was abuse, harassment, exploitation and starvation. Faced every day with harsh decisions, there is nowhere to turn for help but within the family and those like them. There is a realization that to fight the rich landowners, and the authorities who support them, the immigrants must organize themselves. Any attempts to do so in the book are cruelly suppressed and fail, but the hope, the only hope, is left hanging...
Ironic then that this 'idealism' originated in America and continue to inspired so many there in the heart of the world's largest capitalist economy.
But the political themes of workers rights, justice and immigration are not the only rich aspects exposed by the story...What happens when we are faced with changing circumstances? How important are the roles of women in leading and protecting the family? How much of our position and identity come from where we live, what we own, what we do? All of these issues are still are relevant today and will be tomorrow.
I guess it is a bad idea to force people to read books, but this certainly is a book everyone should read!
Compulsive Reading !!, 07 Jun 2007
Steinbeck has the gift of being able to describe his characters in immense detail without instilling boredom in the reader. You can actually "see" the character he describes.....this book is a work of art.
Gruelling but good, 09 Jan 2007
Grapes of Wrath is a gruelling story of the plight of the Joad family. It certainly makes you think about how badly treated these people were in what was suppossed to be a civilized country. There's certainly no happy ending. In fact I found the story petered out rather than came to a satisfactory conclusion.
At times the prose is beautiful and the characters are developed well throughout the story. I found the social commentary chapters a bit strange and didn't feel they added that much. 100 pages too many perhaps.
I know it's regarded as a classic but I can't rate it more than 3 stars because overall I didn't love it.
Okay, 18 Jul 2004
This book details the story of the Joad family and their travelling to the West in search of jobs. I did like this book, but it isn't one of my favourites. I can see why it is a classic, but personally there are many other books I prefer.
A wonderful story, 09 Jun 2008
I first read this book at school and I really enjoyed it. I found it very moving and the friendship between George and Lenny was well written. All in all this is a wonderful story and it's one of the few books that I could read again and again.
A confession., 18 Jan 2008
I must have been one of the few people who never studied Of Mice and Men at school so came across it rather later in life. It wasn't the first Steinbeck I'd read - that accolade goes to Cannery Row (one of the few books I've read and read again!) so I approached this with a bit of trepidation wondering why it was such a popular "school text"
Well it's now obvious why. There is so much to be drawn out of this, short, novel that resonates today and which today's students can expand upon.
As a by the by, a current TV news item is covering internet plagiarism for school exams, and the example they are using is -you've guessed it - Of Mice and Men
And so to my confession. I got into this book so much that I read three quarters of it in one sitting and finished it whilst on my tube journey into work. And yes, those of you on the Central Line all those years ago, I was the ugly big bloke crying his eyes out in the corner (having gone three stops past the one I wanted).
This is the only book that has made such an emotional impact on me and if no one has read it yet please do so and also read ALL of Steinbeck's books. My favourites are the classics, East of Eden and Grapes of Wrath of course, but also lesser known works - Cannery Row and Sweet Thursday, both set in Monterey and The Wayward Bus, a compelling tale using an unlikely premise, but drawing out superb descriptions of place and character.
He wrote many other novels, travelogues, journalistic pieces and copious letters which have been collected in varying forms. - PLEASE READ THEM ALL! They put most (all?) of today's literature into the shade.
I believe everything he wrote is published in one form or another except "Bombs Away" a wartime Airforce recruitment book - and I am still kicking myself for not getting a copy I saw when in Monterey myself, believing that I could pick it up cheaper in the UK - What a fool!
And to finish, a brief quotation from where I believe Steinbeck drew his title
" The best laid schemes o' mice an' men
Gang aft agley (often go wrong)
An' lea'e us nought but grief an'pain,
For promised joy.
Robert Burns To a Mouse (1785)
A parable of loneliness and poverty, 04 Dec 2007
Two penniless itinerant workers arrive in California's Salinas Valley with dreams of owning their own farm and settling down in peace. But first they must hold down a job and get some money together. George Milton and his giant, dim-witted friend Lennie Small have nothing in the world except each other and each acts as the other's protector in different ways. Unfortunately, although gentle and child-like, Lennie's emotional instability and immense strength are a constant source of trouble and George has to keep baling him out of trouble. Arriving late on their first day of employment at a ranch, things begin ominously when the boss's son takes a dislike to Lennie, and then slide inexorably into heart-breaking tragedy. Powerful and poignant, Of Mice and Men is one of the twentieth century's great parables of loneliness and poverty.
The Fatta the Lan', 23 Oct 2006
"Of Mice and Men" was first published in 1937 and has been adapted for the stage and screen. It's set in mid-1930s California and opens beside the Salinas river, a few miles outside Soledad. The book focuses on Lennie and George, a pair of migrant workers who earn a living on the state's farms. George is the dominant character of the pair, as Lennie isn't quite capable of looking after himself properly. Although big and strong, he has a poor memory, panics easily and doesn't always understand what's happening around him. All he wants out of life is to have his own farm with George, look after some rabbits and "live of the fatta the lan'". As the book opens, the pair are on their way to a new job; they had to leave their previous job and go on the run after Lennie was (falsely) accused to rape. Things don't go smoothly for the pair when they arrive at their new place of work. It's clear that the farm owner's son, Curley, and his wife are going to be the source of a great deal of trouble.
"Of Mice and Men" is a very short book - a great deal shorter and much easier than I'd expected. I had a great deal of sympathy for Lennie, who was based on a real person : in an ideal world, he shouldn't have been leading the life he was living. Similarly, I think George was placed in an impossible position at the end of the book - though I couldn't help but wonder how George himself saw things. As I was reading the book's climax, I couldn't help but think of something Candy had said to George earlier in the book, regarding his dog.
I'd definitely recommend this book, particularly the Penguin Classics edition if you can get your hands on it. Susan Shillinglaw's introduction for this edition really set things in context for me. However, I wouldn't necessarily recommend reading the introduction first - it does contain a couple of spoilers.
Simply drawn, 12 Jun 2006
On a passage to realise a dream an unlikely drifting duo of Lennie and George arrive to work and mind their own business. They are overtaken by events which impact on a flawed character which determine an insurmountable fate.
This is a small, compressed and moving novel where characters are easily understood for they are simply drawn. It is lyrical, symbolic, yet realistic. Paradoxically it is a story of friendship and tragic loneliness. Hope and hopelessness are illustrated in a tale and the title which is aptly borrowed from R Burns `the best laid schemes'. It is short enough to be read in one sitting and doing so perhaps enhances the effect. Savour the silences, the light and shade.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
Touching, 19 Sep 2008
This is the first Steinbeck book I have read.
I look forward to reading many more.
A simple and touching study of loneliness and all it entails.
Of Mice And Men, 17 Sep 2008
Of Mice and Men is a classic piece of 20th century American literature. Steinbeck portrays a troubled period of American history with concise and accurate depiction of the strains the depression of 1933 put on the USA socially as well as financially. The book also deals with some very close-to-home issues such as racial stigma and sexism. The novels main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, are the stereotypical laborers, wandering from ranch to ranch, harvesting the grain and then leaving, having nothing to spend their month's earnings on apart from sex or alcohol. However, despite the harsh reality that they will spend all their working life, on a ranch, bucking barley, everybody like George or Lennie has a little piece of heaven stored safely away in their imagination. This story represents the struggle of two everyday men, trying to break out of their everyday routine and turn that imaginary strip of land into a reality.
Steinbeck at his character-constructing best, 15 Aug 2008
I've just finished reading Of Mice and Men as part of a novel-reading challenge and despite its short length, I've got to say it's a monumental piece of literature, with a story as powerful as anything I have, or am probably ever likely to read.
The story centres around George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who are scouring the Californian countryside in search of work. Again, as was other Steinbeck novels, I have been mesmerised by Mr. Steinbeck's profound ability to create characters that are wholly `stick in the head' memorable. Lennie, despite being a bit of a `man mountain' and a `hell of a good worker' suffers from a high level of mental disability. His only motivation seem to be that one day he's going to own a farm with George, solely so he can care for a load of rabbits. Lennie loves to pet soft cuddly things, but as you'll find out if you read Of Mice and Men, this passion ends up being quite detrimental to him at times.
George acts as a kind of mentor or carer for Lennie. It's obvious he has a real affection for Lennie (and he apparently made a promise to Lennie's aunt that he would care for him after she passed away), but one has to wonder to what extent George may be exploiting Lennie's strength and ability to work. George like to proclaim to potential employers, the fact that Lennie can do the work of many hands, and this seems to be a good `bargaining chip', provided Lennie can keep his mouth shut at the `interview stage' for securing work.
George and Lennie may be the primary `players' in Of Mice and Men but Mr. Steinbeck has also created a whole host of characters that are equally interesting. It would be giving way too much of the plot if I went into detail so suffice it to say that characters such as Candy, Slim, Crooks and Curly will remain unforgettable to the reader of this novel.
The story, although powerful is, as I've found with a number of Mr. Steinbeck's books, fairly linear and not hugely plot-driven. I often see the plot and settings of Mr. Steinbeck's novels to be more a stage for his characters rather than anything else, but that's no bad thing, given that his characters are so well put together. However what Mr. Steinbeck does do well throughout this novel is to infuse suggestions of an ulterior motive for George and Lennie's nomadic wanderings (it isn't just to find work), which becomes clear near the end of the story.
Of Mice and Men is proclaimed by many as being one of the greatest works ever written, and after reading it I can see why. For anyone wishing an introduction into the novels of Steinbeck, this title is ideal. It's short enough to complete in one or two days, and while the characters in Of Mice and Men are profoundly realised there are only a handful of them, and each is presented in an uncomplicated and straightforward way. I'm sure there aren't too many people who haven't read Of Mice and Men sometime in their life, but if you're one of them then I highly recommend picking this book up. I know you'll enjoy it.
School text or bedtime read?, 19 Jun 2008
I chose to read this to accompany my daughter who is reading this for GCSE. I am sorry to buck the trend but I don't think this is a good short story, novella or novel. It's a good tale but there's not enough characterisation or back history to understand the outcome for Lennie and the rest of the characters. As an exercise in writing with symmetry with themes and leit motifs it's great - so an interesting GCSE text but not really a "leisure" read.
Scoring no.6 on America's most contraversial books ever written, 02 Aug 2007
A good read. I particularly liked the chapter in which Steinbeck uses a form of magic realism to portray a rather surreal description Lennie's emotions. A classic indeed.
Unfortunately 5 is the highest, 24 Jun 2008
else this and Ulyses would be the only 20th century works I'd give more. Joyce for his epic poetry, Steinbeck for his enlightenment. Read him and understand where you live!
Steinbeck strikes again, 20 Jun 2008
I am going to go against the grain here and only give this book three stars. I am not doubting the quality of the book and as always Steinbeck has provided a vivid account of American life. My main problem with this book is that it is rather a miserable book. I know if you had been evicted from your land and forced to work for a measly sum you would also have very little to laugh about. I also had trouble with the local dialect and I almost stopped reading after the first 100 pages.
Heres the thing, after the first 100 pages the accent really grows on you and the story really takes shape. There is very little mention of the plight of the black population in this book which might have been nice of Steinbeck to mention.
The ending is weird, I wont spoil it, I think Steinbeck was going for some level of enduring human spirit, no matter how you square it, it really is just a little odd.
Where have the world's great writers gone?, 03 Jun 2008
There are very few books that can be classified as truly magnificent, but this is one of them. You don't have to be American, you don't have to have lived through hard times.
Just marvel at the perfection of Steinbeck's work. It was truly tragic when I finished this masterpiece, for there were very few works of brilliance left to discover.....
Staggering literary achievement, 19 Feb 2008
This is simply one of the greatest books ever written. Powerful, always challenging, shocking, yet more human than almost anything else I have ever read. I dont think you can | | |