Of Mice and Men

by John Steinbeck
Of Mice and Men cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £8.99 Hardback • £12.99
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Format • £8.54–£9.49
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Technical
  • ID: 2415
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • Publisher: ببلومانيا للنشر والتوزيع
  • Published: 2024-03-26
  • Formats: 40
  • Reviews: 4

Of Mice and Men, written by John Steinbeck and first published in 1937, is a timeless novella set against the backdrop of the Great Depression in California. It tells the story of George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant ranch workers with a deep bond, as they navigate the harsh realities of their time in search of a better future. George, quick-witted and protective, cares for Lennie, who is physically strong but mentally disabled, with a childlike innocence. Their shared dream of owning a small farm is constantly threatened by the cruelty of the world around them, exploring themes of friendship, loneliness, and the plight of marginalized individuals. The novella is a powerful portrayal of human relationships and the struggle for survival, resonating with readers through its exploration of the harshness of society and the enduring human spirit. Steinbeck's poignant narrative delves into the complexities of human nature and the dreams that sustain us in the face of adversity.

Reviews
Full of Lit · 2023-11-27
powerful 4.50

The novella is short but powerful, evoking deep emotions within a brief reading time. It's a compact yet impactful piece of literature.

This reviewer found the novella to be incredibly moving, despite its short length. They were particularly struck by how much emotional depth and power Steinbeck managed to pack into such a concise narrative. The story's brevity doesn't diminish its impact; instead, it enhances the intensity of the experience. They appreciated how the novella captures the essence of human struggles and dreams in a way that resonates deeply, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The novella made me cry.

    It only took two hours to read since it's so short, but it somehow is packed with so much power.

    It's a compact yet impactful piece of literature.

Sam Still Reading · 2020-06-04
evocative 4.50

The novella is evocative and punches above its weight, capturing the essence of a different time and place. The reviewer found it incredibly moving.

This reviewer found the novella to be incredibly evocative, transporting them to another time and place. They were struck by how the story, despite its brevity, manages to capture the essence of the Great Depression era with such vividness. The reviewer appreciates the emotional depth and the way the novella resonates with themes of hope and despair, making it a powerful and memorable read. They highlight how the story's impact is amplified by its concise yet powerful narrative.

Quick quotes

    Of Mice and Men isn't particularly long, but it punches way above its weight.

    It's incredibly evocative of another time and another place.

    The story resonates with themes of hope and despair.

Nut-Free Nerd · 2019-10-17
thought-provoking 4.00

The book delivers a weighty, emotional, and thought-provoking punch despite its short length. The reviewer plans to revisit it in the future.

This reviewer was impressed by the depth and emotional impact of the novella, especially considering its length. They found the story to be thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, making it a book they plan to return to in the future. The reviewer appreciates how Steinbeck manages to convey complex themes and emotions in such a concise format, making it a compelling read that lingers in the mind long after finishing it.

Quick quotes

    For a 107-page novel, this book certainly packs a weighty, emotional, thought-provoking punch.

    I can see myself returning to Of Mice and Men in the future.

    The story is packed with emotion and thought-provoking themes.

The Guardian · 2013-12-21
classic 3.00

The book is a classic with valid reasons, but it may seem boring to some. It captures the essence of the Great Depression era.

This reviewer acknowledges that Of Mice and Men is a well-known classic for good reason. They note that while the book might seem boring to some, especially those who find books about the Great Depression uninteresting, it has a lot to offer. The story's depth and historical context make it a significant piece of literature. They appreciate the book's ability to capture the essence of the era and the struggles of the characters.

Quick quotes

    Of Mice and Men is a well-known classic, and with valid reason.

    The book may seem rather boring (as many books about the Great Depression may ...).

    It captures the essence of the Great Depression era.

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