Reviewed by: Kimball, age 15
I read this book in ninth grade. It was a good read. The characters are thought-provoking and original.
Setting: Soledad California area, pre-Civil War
Introduction:
George and Lennie are two men looking for work. George is a thin, cynical man and Lennie is a mentally handicapped, childlike oaf. Both dream of having their own farm (with soft rabbits that Lennie can pet.) Due to a blunder of Lennie's in which he attempted to feel a woman's dress (because of his love of soft things) the two are thrown out of town for attempted rape. The two bindlestiffs head out to Soledad to find new jobs on a ranch. Though they find the job they are looking for, the boss's son Curly is antagonistic to the newcomers because of his lack of height, posing a threat to Lennie, who could easily hurt Curly by accident if Curly starts to bully him. In addition, Curly's flirtatious wife is very pretty and has soft hair, and Lennie soon incurs Curly's jealousy. George and the two other ranch hands, Slim and Candy, must do all they can to stop Lennie from accidentally hurting anyone so that they can achieve their goals.
Themes: No man is an island, know your own strength, be compassionate
Recommended Age: 14 and up
Full Disclosure: There is lots of profanity in this book, and there is also racism. However, the racism is not glorified. There is also mention of sexual activity but none actually described or taking place in scenes in the book.
Rating: 4 stars
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