Questers -- October 11, 2023

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck is a classic American tale of two drifters trying to find a little piece of the world where they belong. As they work as ranch hands, they have a goal in mind to own a piece of land, raise their own animals and food, and just live their lives in peace. They face challenges along the way, especially when Lennie's lack of intellectual development is taken advantage of by others. 

This is a tragic tale that masterfully creates an emotional investment for the reader. We want the diminutive George and gargantuan Lennie to see their dreams come true, but foreshadowing makes us doubt that possibility as much as the characters doubt themselves. Dangers lurk around every corner for Lennie, who doesn't understand his own strength or the motives behind George's orders to stay away from people who might cause them trouble. 

The Questers gave the book a 3.13 rating out of 5 stars. They respected the writing and agreed the author created a classic by giving the readers an emotional storyline that resonated with our own deep desires for human connection and a place of belonging. However, it is a deeply sad book, which contributed to such an average rating.