Like many other reviewers of this book, I was forced read this book because it was on my English reading list. This book was, how can I put it, it was not enjoyable for me to read, but it is enjoyable to think about. The premise, the plot, the characters and their actions are all really beautiful upon recollection. I just didn't enjoy reading it. it seems as if Steinbeck used this novelette as one long exercise in imagery. He describes everything to death and I had to force myself to focus. But it is a beautiful book. I would recommend it, though not to the backstreet-boy-listening-glitter-fingernail-polished-teen-magazine crowd.