Thursday, October 30, 2008

Finally, The Grapes of Wrath Review

The Grapes of Wrath (Centennial Edition) The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck


My long awaited review...Ha ha!


rating: 4 of 5 stars
I would give this book 4.5 stars if I could.

I found it surprisingly engaging and beautiful. I know it's a classic, but I put off reading it because Steinbeck's wordy reputation precedes him, and not without reason.

As a writer, I found it fascinating how much a novel's style can change over time. An editor today would probably cut every other chapter since they veer from the main story to take a 'bigger picture' look at the implications of the Great Migration in the Dustbowl era. One whole chapter, for instance, is dedicated to a turtle's attempt to cross a highway.

And yet, the characters were sympathetic and real. The dialogue was perfect, and the ending was moving and unexpected. I'm so glad I didn't read this in high school, because I think the ending would have made me giggle immaturely, but instead it nearly made me cry.

It's a classic for a reason, and I highly recommend it.


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3 comments:

Lane Mathias said...

I've never read it. I will now:-)

So many books, so little time. x

Jenny Beattie said...

It's on my TBR pile right now. I'll try and get onto it.

Angie said...

Lane and JJ, go forth and read it (but make sure you have a long attention span before you start). :)