An obligatory reading.......

I read the Grapes of Wrath for the first time, and I got to say it's easy to read because of it's nonchalant plodding narrative.  Not to mention, for an infrequent reader such as myself (it took me nearly 4 months to finish the 619 pages), it's easy to pick up where you left off even after a few days of not reading. 

Heavy on symbolism like any John Steinbeck novel, it takes the reader from extreme dust and parched land to heavy torrents in the end as it describes the Joads' journey from Oklahoma to California in search of fertile land.  It's based on the reality of the "Dust Bowl" migration of farmers during the 30s.

If you like action, this is not the book for you.  But if you want a grueling, yet surprisingly calming read that demonstrates basic human needs, compassion, ultimate sacrifice, and unrelenting determination then you should give it a try.

I'll leave you with this warning though.  It is a loong and grueling book but like any long journey, there will be much to reflect on in the end.