Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

From Bryan, guest reviewer in 8th Grade:

What would drive a man to kill his only best friend? The play-novel, “Of Mice and Men,” written by John Steinbeck, explores this very theme.

This book is about two lonely wanderers moving from one job to another in order to achieve their shared dream. One is Lenny, a big man who doesn’t know his own strength, and George, a small but quick man who always takes care of his big friend. The book is set in the Salinas Valley, California during the depression era. The main theme of the book is about testing the limits of true friendship.

I reread this book, because it was a short, yet captivating novel. The scope of the play is limited, which allows it to contain universal messages about friendship, loyalty, and the lure of the American Dream. I chose to reread this play, because I wanted to pick up on the subtle details that foreshadowed the tragedy that occurs at the end.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in tasting the clear style of Steinbeck, one of the greatest American authors of our time. I also recommend this book to people who interested in a tragic ending to a beautiful dream.