A review by franchescanicole
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

4.0

The story is still as good as what I remember in 8th grade! I thought there were more parts about Crook though than the single time that they met him, but the ending was still really sad! John Steinbeck did such an amazing job making every single character memorable as an individual. I think part of it as well was the audiobook I was listening to when I was reading; the audiobook had different voices for each of the main characters, and I could just imagine what each person would be like if I met them. I think I'd be able to guess based on the dialogue choices alone who is who. Everyone is so different from each other, and everyone is so distinct based on their actions and their approach to life. For example, Carleson didn't play a big role in the story, but you can kind of tell what he's like based on how he approached Candy's dog. Even Crook had a chapter about him, you can tell just by his entire interaction with Lennie what he's like. I remember in 8th grade, I wished there was a sequel, and even now, I wish I could read another short story about what happened to the rest of the people on that ranch. What actually happens to George and Candy? Will they find some place? Maybe Slim could play a part in their dream. Maybe they can cultivate a place of their own. Maybe Crooks can do a few of the chores and rest, and Carleson can stand guard with his Luger. It's a really good short story! I wish I ask John Steinbeck how he'd continue it.