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I have never read this book before, and I have to read it for school in a couple of weeks. Can someone give me the main overview of the book? 

Did you like it? Dislike it? What's the main idea of the book?

This book is a rather quick read and it tells the story of Lennie and George, two migrant workers in the early part of the 20th century. Lennie somewhat mentally handicapped. His inability to control his urges to pet soft things is what has driven him and George from job to job. They have found a new job and have dreams of one day earning enough money to buy their own ranch. Lennie's dream is to take care of the rabbits on their new land.

Unfortunately, Lennie underestimates his strength again and disaster strikes, driving the two men from their new job. I won't spoil the ending for you.

I enjoyed reading the book; Steinbeck takes an interesting look at the dynamics of friendship and loyalty, especially between men, during this rough period of time. If you need any more information, check out the links below.

The novel is set during the Great Depression and takes place in California. The story focuses on two men, Lennie, a large mentally handicapped man who loves to pet soft things, and George, a small man who is the mental leader of the two. At the beginning of the novel, Lennie and George have been run out of the town of Weed because Lennie frightened a girl. They travel to a ranch and get a job bucking ( loading) barley. Both Lennie and George have a dream of owning their own farm someday and during their stay at the ranch the dream seems almost possible. The rest of the novel examines the dreams of both Lennie and George, and the dreams of other people on the ranch. Most students seem to enjoy the novel. It's easy to read, short and has an interesting plot. I think you'll like it. Be prepared for an unusual ending..

What makes this such a strong novella is the depth of characterization that Steinbeck achieves so quickly.  By the end of the novel, you will truly feel like you've come to know and understand many of the characters in the story.  This is absolutely a worth-while read for so many different reasons.  I could count the number of my former student who didn't enjoy this story on one hand.