1902-1968

A collection of more than fifty essays and journalistic pieces in which American author John Steinbeck reflects on the world around him.

Shares the story of how John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath," published to much acclaim in April 1939, became the target of censors in Kern County, California, where the book was publicly burned and banned from schools and libraries.

Analyzes the patterns in Steinbeck's work, judging each novel in the context of a greater appreciation of the shape of his long career.

Includes discussions of the work's influence, historical context, and critical reception in addition to a chronology and bibliography.

Offers commentary and analysis of Steinbeck's novel, Of mice and men.

This book includes a biography of John Steinbeck and nineteen critical essays on The Grapes of Wrath.

Excerpts from Steinbeck's diary show him writing, reacting to the novel's reception.