Totally floored, and of course this is one of those books you hear about your whole life. I went in completely blind.
This is a rare 10/10 book for me – possibly my favorite of the last 5 years or so. I know so much has been written about this novel so I’ll spare most of my own opinions (I imagine they echo most other positive takes). I kept thinking again and again how there is not so much “plot” yet everything seems so important and consequential.
I will say though, by far, my favorite character was LEE. What an amazing person. I wish we all could have a Lee to speak to, philosophize, ask advice, etc…
Would love to hear suggestions on what to follow! What Steinbeck novels should I think about next? Or what else would you suggest?
by speedyelephants2
2 Comments
Grapes of Wrath, set in the historical backdrop of the Great Depression, is IMHO one of his finest works. It is one of those works that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it.
East of Eden is my favorite book. For something similar, I’d suggest Sometimes a Great Notion by Ken Kesey. It’s a also a family saga with the deep conflicts that come from strong personalities within a family rubbing against each other all anchored to a specific place (in this case the Pacific Northwest) in much the same way the characters in East of Eden are anchored to the Salinas Valley.