Summary
The author of such classics as East of Eden, Of Mice and Men, The Red Pony, and more, John Steinbeck won a Pulitzer Prize in 1940 for The Grapes of Wrath. He was awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize in literature "for his realistic as well as imaginative writings, distinguished by a sympathetic humour and a keen social perception."
Critical Companion to John Steinbeck celebrates this preeminent American writer who in his works confronted and explored the social fabric of the United States in the early 20th century. More than 500 entries include synopses of his novels, short stories, and nonfiction; descriptions of his characters, from the Joad family in The Grapes of Wrath to Lennie Small in Of Mice and Men; details about family, friends, and associates; information about film and television adaptations of Steinbeck's works; and discussions of places that influenced Steinbeck—from Salinas, California to Paris, France.
Coverage includes:
- A concise but comprehensive biography of Steinbeck
- Detailed synopses of, and critical commentary on, Steinbeck's works, including his novels, short stories, dramatic works, and nonfiction
- Discussions of the main characters of major works
- Descriptions of major film and television adaptations
- Entries on family, friends, and places important to Steinbeck
- and more.