Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Moving Depression-era story of friendship, loneliness, fate.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 13 parent reviews
Parents say that the book provides an opportunity for meaningful discussions about complex themes like loneliness, disability, and social issues, making it a valuable read for both children and adults. However, there are mixed feelings regarding its use of mature language and themes, with some adults appreciating the discussions it inspires while others criticize it for being unsuitable for younger audiences and expressing dislike for its characters and storyline.
- mature themes
- discussion starter
- captivating story
- mixed opinions
- age suitability
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 76 kid reviews
Kids say the book is often viewed as boring and poorly written, with many reviewers criticizing its flat characters and abrupt ending. However, some appreciate its deeper themes of friendship and the harsh realities of the American Dream, noting it provides important historical context despite its offensive language and outdated portrayals.
- boring
- poor character development
- important themes
- historical context
- emotional ending
- offensive language
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
George and Lennie are two itinerant ranch hands who arrive in California's Salinas Valley during the Great Depression, after being run off from their last assignment up north. Lennie possesses great physical strength but has the intellectual capacity of a child. George is the more calculating of the pair, but even he gets caught up in Lennie's dreams of owning a farm. As they find work and try to build a stake that will bring them closer to their dream, George and Lennie discover how easily Fate can upset their best-laid plans.
Is It Any Good?
OF MICE AND MEN is justifiably considered a classic of American literature: a short, direct meditation on friendship, loneliness, and unfulfilled dreams in trying times. Its plot and prose are straightforward and unadorned, but the impact of the final chapters is unforgettable. Lennie and George are iconic characters, and Steinbeck's presentation of their interactions with the hands at the Salinas ranch is pitch-perfect.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the values of friendship and loyalty and how they can be tested in times of economic hardship.
As a child, Lennie suffered some kind brain injury that impeded his intellectual development. How has society's treatment of the mentally disabled changed over the decades?
Lennie and George dream of owning a farm of their own, one where Lennie can take care of the rabbits. What kinds of dreams of the future do people have today? What are some of the obstacles they might encounter in trying to achieve them?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Literary Fiction
- Topics : Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Penguin Classics
- Publication date : January 3, 2002
- Number of pages : 112
- Last updated : November 6, 2025
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