The Grapes of Wrath

As I continue on my goal of reading or listening to the classics, I have come across an amazing book. Although The Grapes of Wrath is a book I have heard about many times, I never read it. The author, John Steinbeck, is a master with language and although this book is is extremely sad, I can appreciate the story because of the powerful words he has chosen to convey his ideas. Set during the Depression, this story follows a family that is forced to leave Oklahoma because no jobs are available. The family sets out for California were they have heard jobs and food are plenty. Along the way, they soon realize that California is also affected by the drought and the Depression. The story follows this family's life as they seek to find work, shelter, and food. The vivid descriptions of their suffering have stayed with me even though I actually read the book a few months ago. Whenever I was eating a snack while listening, I felt guilty for having our food and I need all these people were practically starving. Even though the story took place several decades ago, it reminded me of the current difficulties immigrants face in the United States. Much of the same discrimination is still with us. Although this is not a book I would recommend for taking to the beach, it is one that should be read by all of us.