Exquisitely written! A very moving and gut-wrenching story about a man and his family as they go through love, antipathy, despair, and almost total implosion. We learn about the power of love and forgiveness. Above all, we learn that nothing about life is predestined. We are free to choose our paths in life. Hope that is not too preachy!

posted Mar 4, 2008 at 4:30PM

Combines the classic American struggles (which are often over-used and over-written in fictional books) with in-depth characters and creates twists and turns while incorporating meaning and symbolism. Can be read and enjoyed on multiple analytical levels. Would recommend to anyone and everyone. This book gave me incredible respect for Steinbeck and I now call him one of the best American authors of all-time!

posted Jun 14, 2008 at 1:13PM

Without a doubt, one of the best books ever written.

posted Apr 11, 2009 at 2:44PM

Steinbeck is the Master! This story is loosely based on the story of Adam and Eve and their offspring, Cain and Able. The Eden in the story is actually the unsettled Wild West of California! This book is So engaging that this is my third reading of it in my lifetime and, if I don't lose my sight, it won't be the last!

posted Apr 1, 2011 at 4:09PM

I waited too long to read Steinbeck. Now that I have, I wished he wrote more big fat books like this and Grapes of Wrath. He is a joy to read despite subject matter

posted Jan 7, 2013 at 8:03PM

 Add a Comment