What is your favorite Steinbeck novel and why?

Answer 1

First, to poster Robabard who wrote that Steinbeck was of all things "A one trick pony" and a political commentator (say, have you actually ever read any Steinbeck, kid?), I think you must have heard that line from some adult and applied it here. Steinbeck was arguably the greatest writer of his (or any other generation) as his stories were ALL unique as they come (look up definition of one trick pony) and two, each is a masterpiece which is very rare. Most writers turn out only one masterpiece int heir career (even if they write numerous books) but Steinbeck turned out one each time, the best in my view being East of Eden. Never was their more lyrical prose and Steinbeck's masterful comparison to the Biblical Cain and Abel story with his richly-shaped characters and flow of prose was absolutely seamless and sheer perfection. And if anyone uses this for homework, watch out as your teacher will know an adult wrote it. And if they don't, then they shouldn't be teaching Steinbeck!

Answer 2

I've read two of his novels - Of Mice and Men and The Grapes of Wrath.

Of Mice and Men was much better. The story moved along at a good pace and it was a well written book. I actually enjoyed the book and thought the movie was good too ( the one with Gary Sanise as the star character).

The Grapes of Wrath - was torchure to read. Nothing really happens in the book for the first 450 pages. But I still couldn't put it down because I though something was bound to happen (and plus I was reading it for a school assignment) and the imagery in the book was very good - I could see everything that was writen on every page.

Both books were very easy to visualize in my mind - Steinbeck is a good writer.

Answer 3

I would have to say the 'Grapes of Wrath'.

This novel, while difficult to read on many levels, eloquently spoke to the overwhelming tragedy of the great depression following the crash of Wall Street in 1929.

This depression remade America into a completely different socio-economic nation. Nothing has ever been the same since.

It is an important work of fiction concerning a very important turning point for the United States. Those who grew up during the great depression shaped America and relentlessly pursued wealth as a matter of security.

Today we have a wealthy, insecure nation and money, status and greed define our culture.

This was not so prior to the great depression.

Answer 4

The Red Pony. It was the first Steinbeck book I'd ever read, and I was just captivated with the story and how wonderfully he described Northern California.

Answer 5

In Dubious Battle. I don't agree with its politics as it deals with Communist organisers in 1930s America but it gives some insight into why people became politically radicalised in that time. Steinbeck actually 'disowned' this one.

Answer 6

The Pearl......I first read it as a teen and was amazed by its haunting beauty and simplicity. I feel the same way about Hemmingway's The Old Man and the Sea.I usually like longer reads but these two short books said so much in so short a space I can't help but love them.

Answer 7

I don't have one. He's a bit of a one trick pony. The more I read of him, the more I hear the same voice fretting behind the words. In the end he is more of a political commentator than he is a great fiction writer.

Answer 8

I agree with so many others who have answered this question. By far the best is Of Mice And Men.

Answer 9

I loved the Grapes of Wrath

Answer 10

Well i've only read East of Eden but now i wanna read of mice and men