Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Turn The Page ... Tuesday


And you’re the farmer’s daughter

You been teasing us farm boys

Till we start talkin’ about those rabbits, George

Oh won’t you tell us ‘bout those rabbits, George
This months challenge for TTPT was to read a classic ... If the song lyrics weren't clue enough, I read Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck. Truth be told, if I had not read the book I would have not known that the song was referring to several of the main characters.
Of Mice and Men is one of many books that my dear Grammy passed on to me. I've had it on my radar for some time to read - TTPT just gave me a great excuse. I was not disappointed. This is the second book of Steinbeck that I've read and he did not let me down. The characters were so foreign to me in some ways; I have no idea what it is like to work as a ranch hand much less travel from job to job with nothing but your clothes on your back and what little pay you received from your last job. I do however understand wants, needs and the desire to be somebody.

I would guess that most of us at one time in our lives have been either George or Lennie. Let me explain - we have either been the more sane, rash, keeper of order in a friendship or we have been the one who maybe needed more guidance and hand holding to get through a period of our lives. Now if you've read this book (of if you decide to read it) you will see that I am over simplifying the characters - George and Lennie have such a story to share and it's a wee bit more complicated (family ties, disabilities, run ins with the law). It's a tale of an odd friendship, commitment, honor ... and having a dream; even if your are following some one else's dream. I really enjoyed this book. It's a quick read. Not a tear jerker but certainly enough to give your heart a good tug. If nothing else, you'll know the meaning behind some song lyrics!
And for more good reads, check out these ladies posts:
Please exuse the weird spacing ... I don't know what is up with blogger.

6 comments:

Ruth said...

I haven't read the book but it sounds like a great one. I will have to add it to my list. I had a great time reading some books this summer.

Ruth

Paula said...

I'm going to have to pick this one up. I've never read it, but do remember watching the movie (with Dustin Hoffman, I think) many years ago.
Good review, Adrienne. Really makes me want to read it.

Paula said...

I have not read many classics.
This sounds like one I would enjoy.

jannza said...

Hi, Adrienne. My "homework" is all turned in. I completed last months reading and one for this month as well. yippee. Do we have a special theme for next month or are we on our own?

I'm planning to read Of Mice and Men. It's always intrigued me.

Now off to the Farmer's market for a lovely day with a sweet daughter.
: )

Paige said...

Excellent review! I read Of Mice and Men waaaay back in high school and remember liking it a lot. The Winter of our Discontent and The Grapes of Wrath are on my list to read, too.

Jackie: said...

I am a bit obsessed with Jane Austen at the moment. I am reading Mansfield Park.

Reading makes me happy! Very happy.