This book is actually a narrative for a screenplay of the same name by John Steinbeck. Most of the content is the same, though the book form contains some editorial additions. It may be preferable to view the film (available on youtube) rather than read the book, as half of Steinbeck's portrayal of the fictional village of "Santiago" is otherwise lost.
The story itself (c. 1940) tells of the continuing growing pains of rural Southern Mexico. Intersecting themes of tradition and science, colonialism and globalization collide in a confusing tangle. The story is clear in itself but the overarching presuppositions might make those of an historical or anthological bent somewhat uncomfortable especially in some of the implied conclusions and the actions of certain characters.
Overall the story is an engaging window into the village life of Southern Mexico has it has existed for 400 years.