Anybody wanting to understand what life was like during the Depression should read this book. My maternal grandmother survived it. They lived in Kansas. They ate grass. Those years changed my grandmother forever. I think I finally understand why she was who she. Steinbeck's novel is based on solid and extensive research, even if it is a book of fiction.
I am in a pickle. I cannot tell you whether by the end I found it to be depressing. That would be a spoiler. I will say instead that how ever it ends, it is moving and engaging every bit of the way. Talk about resilient, generous, warm and wonderful people! The book is filled with humor.
I personally do not understand how this book could in any way be a criticism of Okies! The contrary is true. It is if anything the Californians that are to be criticized, and the government for not adequately helping the migrants. On this issue the following two links are interesting. I want to thank my GR friend Kim for leading me to both.