One sentence summary
Of Mice and Men is a classic novel by John Steinbeck depicting the struggle of the downtrodden during the Great Depression in California.
Book genre
Of Mice and Men is classified as a novella or short novel.
Main topic of the book
Of Mice and Men paints a vivid picture of life during The Great Depression in California. It depicts the struggles of two unlikely friends – George Milton and Lennie Small – as they search for work and hope against the odds.
Key ideas
- The theme of loneliness: George and Lennie’s relationship stands in stark contrast to the loneliness of the other characters, most of whom ultimately meet with unhappy ends.
- The fallacy of the American Dream: Even the most optimistic characters are continually thwarted by the harsh realities of life.
- Social injustice: The novel explores inequality and injustice in the lives of the characters – particularly with regards to racism.
- Naturalism vs. fate: The novel demonstrates how fate and nature interact.
Main parts of the book and a short summary
- Part One: George Milton and Lennie Small are two migrant workers on the run in California. They meet Candy, an old swamper who is disabled, and Crooks, a black stable hand, while looking for work on a ranch. When they find a job, they think they can live the “American Dream” of owning their own farm someday.
- Part Two: The dream is almost realized, until Lennie’s innocent mistake brings all their plans crashing down, and ultimately leads to tragedy. In the end, George is left alone, unable to fulfill his dream.
Key takeaways
- Of Mice and Men is an exploration of the struggles of the downtrodden, during the difficult times of The Great Depression in California.
- The novel highlights themes of loneliness, the American Dream, social injustice, and fate.
- The story follows the two migrant workers George and Lennie, as they search for the means to start a better life, only to have their dreams crushed by an unexpected turn of events.
Author’s background and qualifications
John Steinbeck was an American author who wrote several award-winning and classic works during the 20th century. He was born in 1902 in Salinas, California, and grew up working on nearby farms. In 1925, he moved to New York City to pursue a writing career, and eventually wrote more than 30 books, including Of Mice and Men.
Target audience
Of Mice and Men is a timeless classic that can be read by people of all ages, and appeals to readers of all backgrounds. The story is especially popular amongst young adult readers, due to its themes of friendship, struggle, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Publisher and first publication date
Of Mice and Men was first published by Covici Friede Publishers in 1937. The novel has since been reissued in various formats by Penguin Classics, the Library of America, and several other publishers.