The Grapes of Wrath in Never too Late to Read Classics

Apr 19, 2016 Josh Caporale rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Larry from Literary Gladiators made mention to how he felt The Grapes of Wrath was "The Great American Novel." For me, I am not sure if one could pinpoint any novel, let alone a particular American novel, that could be deemed "the greatest." Still, I feel there are so many American accounts that I need to read in literary form before I make a declaration as to which one I would deem as my favorite. As for The Grapes of Wrath, I find that it demonstrates Steinbeck's ability to flesh out superb ch Larry from Literary Gladiators made mention to how he felt The Grapes of Wrath was "The Great American Novel." For me, I am not sure if one could pinpoint any novel, let alone a particular American novel, that could be deemed "the greatest." Still, I feel there are so many American accounts that I need to read in literary form before I make a declaration as to which one I would deem as my favorite. As for The Grapes of Wrath, I find that it demonstrates Steinbeck's ability to flesh out superb characters, plot, and background, but it is definitely something that one needs to get into when it comes to density.

Tom Joad has just been released from prison on probation after he killed a man he got into a scuffle with. He comes across a former preacher named Casy and returns home to his parents, grandparents, three brothers, two sisters, uncle, brother-in-law, and several animals, who are on their way from leaving Oklahoma to seek opportunity in the west in California. Throughout their journey, they come across obstacles the way that many of others, including animals (like the turtle in chapter three), are bound to be faced with. Along the way are hardships and losses, but also opportunities and the idea that this particular journey is one that continues and does not stop.

I read East of Eden last year and while I felt East of Eden had more flavorful brain food, I still felt that The Grapes of Wrath was important in telling its story about those looking for a better opportunity during the Dust Bowl, emphasized by the Great Depression. The female characters in this novel were really portrayed in a way where the theme of a woman's voice really caught attention (the image of the males squatting as they spoke with the females stood in the same premise is worth exploring). Ma stepped up as a clear leader, while Rosasharn (Rose of Sharon) picked up the need to develop her voice, and even Ruthie was a outspoken young girl. There are so many critical arguments that can be made and explored in this novel, which makes discussion about this work all the better.

We went over this novel in high school and watched the film, but after putting it down due to its density four years ago, I finally read and completed this, and am happy to have done so. This novel gets a solid four stars, because I feel it is an important read, but it is going to require some patience. Just keep in mind that when you come across the turtle in chapter three, look at the greater picture and look at the turtle the same way you would look at a human.

Here is a video of a discussion I had about this novel on Literary Gladiators (which includes spoilers): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-THK... ...more

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Jan 28, 2016 Sydney rated it really liked it

I read this as a part of the group Never Too Late to Read Classics.

I am so incredibly happy to be going through books most people read in high school AND actually enjoying them. My only gripe with this one is it seemed too long and really hit you heavily multiple times with the same themes presented in the same way.

I highly recommend the audio book.

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