EAF_Gummy_Bear t1_j6o6vic wrote on January 31, 2023 at 6:47 PM

I got into reading as an adult and was one of the first books I read, didn’t have any issues with the pacing because it seemed to fit the time and setting so well. Time just moved slower but it fit the book perfectly for me.

mikaelnguyen OP t1_j6o77ff wrote on January 31, 2023 at 6:49 PM

I totally get that. My wife was actually the one who recommended it to me with the cautionary “there are some slow parts, but just get through them” quote that is all too famous. I must’ve just gone in with some pacing bias.

belladonna_nectar t1_j6osvk5 wrote on January 31, 2023 at 9:03 PM

I had mixed feelings while reading it: was mesmerized by the description of Salina Valley in the beginning and was thinking to myself "how comes I didn't discover this book earlier?", then felt a bit exhausted by the initial conflicts between the two brothers and Cathy's erratic behaviour, but after getting into it I couldn't stop.It took me like 2 weeks (?) to finish it, which is unusual when I dig a book. But I have an excuse, it's a pretty thick book lol. At times it can be a bit boring and unrealistic, but some of the characters and their dynamics make it the masterpiece that it is. Its rawness distinguish it from a lovely feel good novel with nice characters; it's relatable, almost palpable and larger than life. Imo its imperfections make it perfect, it's a fine balance that Steinbeck mastered

mikaelnguyen OP t1_j6ox8c3 wrote on January 31, 2023 at 9:30 PM

I absolutely agree Steinbeck’s imagery is some of the absolute best. For me personally, I absolutely enjoyed what happened between Adam, Charles and Kathy. I wasn’t to invested in Aaron and Caleb. The book is very long so it took me awhile too.

belladonna_nectar t1_j6oxylt wrote on January 31, 2023 at 9:34 PM

Uhm, I loved the whole book, only that at times Cathy's description was borderline unrealistic. I found Aaron and Caleb's development interesting to watch and Abra took the dynamics to a whole new level. Anyways, to think that people like them exist and strong bonds like theirs happen makes me wanna cry a bit. 🤷