In the harsh landscape of 1930s California, two displaced ranch workers, George and Lennie, navigate their dreams of a better life. George is cunning and protective, while Lennie, with his immense physical strength and mental challenges, is both a burden and a source of hope. As they strive for independence, their shared vision of owning a piece of land becomes increasingly tenuous. Interwoven with themes of friendship, loneliness, and the quest for belonging, Steinbeck crafts a poignant tale that reflects the struggles of the human condition. Will their dreams survive the unforgiving reality they face?
By John Steinbeck
Published: 2002
""Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don't belong no place.""
A controversial tale of friendship and tragedy during the Great Depression, in a deluxe centennial edition Over seventy-five years since its first publication, Steinbeck’s tale of commitment, loneliness, hope, and loss remains one of America’s most widely read and taught novels. An unlikely pair, George and Lennie, two migrant workers in California during the Great Depression, grasp for their American Dream. They hustle work when they can, living a hand-to-mouth existence. For George and Lennie have a plan: to own an acre of land and a shack they can call their own. When they land jobs on a ranch in the Salinas Valley, the fulfillment of their dream seems to be within their grasp. But even George cannot guard Lennie from the provocations, nor predict the consequences of Lennie's unswerving obedience to the things George taught him. Of Mice and Men represents an experiment in form, which Steinbeck described as “a kind of playable novel, written in a novel form but so scened and set that it can be played as it stands.” A rarity in American letters, it achieved remarkable success as a novel, a Broadway play, and three acclaimed films. This Centennial edition, specially designed to commemorate one hundred years of Steinbeck, features french flaps and deckle-edged pages. For more than sixty-five years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,500 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Scarlett Johansson, primarily renowned as an accomplished actress, has also made notable contributions to literature through her involvement in various narrations and voice work for audiobooks. Her distinctive voice has brought to life numerous characters in literary adaptations, notably lending her voice to the audiobook of "Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland" by Lewis Carroll. Johansson's artistic range extends beyond acting, showcasing her talent in storytelling and narration. Her literary contributions complement her illustrious film career, which includes critically acclaimed performances and numerous awards. Johansson continues to explore diverse artistic avenues, enriching both the cinematic and literary worlds.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
David Sinclair is an Australian biologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, known for his pioneering research in the field of aging and longevity. Sinclair's work focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms that drive aging and developing interventions to slow or reverse the process. His bestselling book Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don’t Have To explores the latest advancements in anti-aging science and offers insights into how humans might extend their healthspan. Sinclair's research has led to breakthroughs in areas such as sirtuins, NAD+ metabolism, and cellular reprogramming. He is also the co-founder of several biotech companies, including Sirtris Pharmaceuticals and Life Biosciences, dedicated to translating aging research into practical treatments. Sinclair is a vocal advocate for taking a proactive approach to aging, promoting lifestyle changes and emerging therapies to delay age-related diseases. His work has made him a leading figure in the longevity movement, influencing both scientific and public discourse on the future of health.
Christopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.
Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.
Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Showing 8 of 18 related collections
“"Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don't belong no place."”
Of Mice and Men
By John Steinbeck
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
John Steinbeck (1902-1968) was an American author renowned for his poignant novels exploring themes of social justice, human struggle, and the American experience. Born in Salinas, California, he drew heavily on his experiences in the state’s agricultural heartland, which influenced works like "The Grapes of Wrath" and "East of Eden." Steinbeck received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1962, recognizing his rich and empathetic storytelling. His writing often highlighted the plight of the marginalized, reflecting his deep compassion for the working class. Today, Steinbeck's legacy endures, inspiring readers and writers with his profound insights into humanity and society.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Six of Crows," a cunning thief named Kaz Brekker assembles a motley crew of misfits to pull off an impossible heist: breaking into the impenetrable Ice Court. Each member of his team harbors a dark past and unique talents, from a deadly bodyguard to a heart-wrenching spy. As they navigate treacherous alliances and deceitful foes, Kaz's meticulously crafted plan begins to unravel in unexpected ways. Themes of loyalty, revenge, and redemption intertwine, revealing the thin line between hero and villain. Will Kaz conquer his demons and achieve the ultimate victory, or will betrayal seal their fate?
In Ursula K. Le Guin's groundbreaking science fiction novel, "The Left Hand of Darkness," an envoy from Earth, Genly Ai, embarks on an extraordinary mission to the icy planet of Gethen, where inhabitants possess a unique gender fluidity that challenges his every assumption. As he navigates the treacherous political landscape and forges an uneasy alliance with the enigmatic Gethenian, Estraven, Genly confronts the profound implications of identity and belonging. The harsh, frozen world mirrors the complexities of human relationships, weaving a tale of friendship, betrayal, and self-discovery. Le Guin crafts a mesmerizing exploration of how culture shapes our understanding of gender and love. Will Genly's quest for acceptance and unity transcend the boundaries of difference, or will it be lost in the unforgiving cold?
SHORTLISTED FOR THE BAILEY'S WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTION 'A delicious, important novel' The Times 'Alert, alive and gripping' Independent 'Some novels tell a great story and others make you change the way you look at the world. Americanah does both.' Guardian As teenagers in a Lagos secondary school, Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Their Nigeria is under military dictatorship, and people are fleeing the country if they can. Ifemelu--beautiful, self-assured--departs for America to study. She suffers defeats and triumphs, finds and loses relationships and friendships, all the while feeling the weight of something she never thought of back home: race. Obinze--the quiet, thoughtful son of a professor--had hoped to join her, but post-9/11 America will not let him in, and he plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Thirteen years later, Obinze is a wealthy man in a newly democratic Nigeria, while Ifemelu has achieved success as a writer of an eye-opening blog about race in America. But when Ifemelu returns to Nigeria, and she and Obinze reignite their shared passion--for their homeland and for each other--they will face the toughest decisions of their lives. Fearless, gripping, spanning three continents and numerous lives, Americanah is a richly told story of love and expectation set in today's globalized world.
In 'Better Web Typography for a Better Web,' Matej Latin unveils the transformative power of typography in web design. He delves into the principles of effective type, demonstrating how thoughtful choices can enhance user experience and engagement. The book is packed with practical tips and real-world examples to help designers craft visually stunning and readable websites. Latin's insights challenge conventional norms, urging readers to rethink their approach to typography. This essential guide equips both aspiring and seasoned designers with the tools to elevate their craft and create a more beautiful web.
In 'Skin in the Game,' Nassim Nicholas Taleb explores the profound risks of decision-making that doesn't involve personal stakes. He unveils how those with power often evade the consequences of their actions while the vulnerable bear the brunt of systemic failures. Through compelling anecdotes and sharp insights, Taleb emphasizes the importance of having 'skin in the game' in economics, politics, and life. His thought-provoking arguments challenge conventional wisdom and demand accountability in our interconnected worlds. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the real implications of risk and responsibility.
Dive into the depths of computer science with 'Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs,' a foundational text that uncovers the principles of programming through the lens of Lisp. Abelson and Sussman guide readers on an intellectual journey, revealing how abstract concepts underpin the art of program design. This edition expands upon classic paradigms, integrating real-world applications and modern techniques. Discover how the elegance of programming mirrors the beauty of mathematics and philosophy. Whether you're a seasoned coder or a curious novice, this book offers profound insights that challenge and inspire.
In 'The Success Equation', Michael J. Mauboussin explores the intricate interplay between skill and luck in achieving success. He dismantles the myth of pure meritocracy, illustrating how randomness can shape outcomes in unexpected ways. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking analysis, Mauboussin reveals insights on decision-making that challenge conventional wisdom. Readers will discover how to identify and cultivate true talent while understanding the limits of their control. This book invites you to rethink what it means to succeed—are you ready to redefine your own path?
In 'Quantum Field Theory and Topology,' Albert S. Schwarz explores the intriguing connections between quantum physics and topology, offering groundbreaking insights into the fabric of the universe. The book delves into how topological concepts can influence quantum field theories, challenging conventional understandings. With a blend of rigorous mathematics and theoretical physics, Schwarz invites readers to reconsider the fundamental principles that underpin our reality. Perfect for both physicists and curious minds, this work opens doors to new dimensions of thought. Discover how the interplay of fields and shapes reveals the hidden symmetries of nature!