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181
Novel • Fiction
California • 1930s
1945
Adult
18+ years
930L
Cannery Row by John Steinbeck follows an eclectic group of characters in Monterey during the Great Depression, centered around Doc, a marine biologist; Mack and his friends; and Lee Chong, a grocery store owner. They navigate life's challenges by relying on their community, orchestrating events like collecting frogs and throwing parties for Doc. Note: The novel contains depictions of death by suicide, infanticide, and alcohol abuse, as well as outdated, offensive terms.
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Humorous
Gritty
Heartwarming
150,397 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Steinbeck's Cannery Row captures the spirit of a tight-knit community during the Great Depression with vivid characters and lyrical prose. Critics praise its rich atmosphere and strong sense of place but note the lack of a conventional plot may not appeal to all readers. Overall, it’s lauded for its warmth, humor, and insightful exploration of humanity.
Readers who cherish community tales, vivid character portrayals, and lyrical prose will find joy in John Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Fans of Steinbeck's nuanced social commentary may also appreciate Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea and Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying. Both authors offer profound insights into human nature akin to Steinbeck’s works.
150,397 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
181
Novel • Fiction
California • 1930s
1945
Adult
18+ years
930L
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