East of Eden by John Steinbeck Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of East of Eden
Book Review: A Classic With Entertainment Value
Summary: 4 Stars
If Oprah Winfrey was looking to get the American public (and perhaps even the world) interested in reading "classic" literature she could have not chosen a better selection than John Steinbeck's "East of Eden." This is certainly not the "tamer" Steinbeck that I read in high school English class. While we may not even think twice about it today, "Eden" must have been simply scandalous when it was originally published in 1952 with murder, prostitution, and adultery just some of the more "adult" issues explored in this epic novel.Despite its intimidating length, "East" moves along quickly as we follow the life of Adam Trask - from his East Coast childhood and troubled relationship with his brother to businessman and father of two sons with equally complex relations of their own. As the title suggests, the book is a modern retelling of the biblical story of Cain and Abel story. As with most of the "classics," the novel is rife with topics and themes to deeply delve into and discuss with your book club. My only criticisms are that the "good vs. evil" angle gets a bit heavy-handed at times and, for me, the novel loses some steam in the final quarter - but these are certainly not enough to not heartily recommend the work.
The nice thing about "Eden" is if you choose not to take the "literary" route, you can still be simply entertained and enthralled by Steinbeck's plot and characters. There is enough suspense and intrigue that make it not terribly different from many of today's bestsellers.
Book Review: A Compelling Novel
Summary: 4 Stars
East of Eden, with over 600 pages of text, may seem daunting at first, but throughout the entire length of the book, Steinbeck keeps the reader focused and on track with his masterful story telling. Set against the backdrop of the biblical tale of Adam and Eve and Cain and Abel, this modern account is a must read for many.
Beginning his tale with the parents of Cain and Abel, Steinbeck follows this family for three generations, describing their lives and thoughts as they sadly reenact the lives of their Biblical counterparts. The only downside to this book is the introduction. Though it is fair from boring the first few chapters are slow. They are not as powerful as the rest of the book but it does create the proper context for the rest of the story. These few chapters bring us deep within the plot of the novel before flaring up and continuing full force for the rest of the book.
While East of Eden can be read for its plot and storyline, Steinbeck's writing allows it to be much more. One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the characters. Each character behaves in a dynamic way, they change and grow and most importantly, live. Steinbeck so flawlessly portrays his characters that they seem real and alive. Their actions and thoughts mimic our thoughts as we read. The development and maturing of these characters are a joy to read. We are eager see as Cal struggles to live up to his brother's ability and talents while we watch as he weeps in his shadow. Cathy is another powerful character. Her chilling ability to destroy and ruin those that love her is uncanny. I have found it hard to comprehend the actions of her twisted mind as she slowly devastates those around her. Yet, this added another level to the story by introducing a wild and unpredictable character. It is exciting to read about her exploits and the evil she can unleash.
Though a story book by nature, East of Eden is able to incorporate deeper meaning with its complex characters. Cal's and the other character's experiences become our own as we read and learn from their mistakes as they struggle through their version of Adam and Even and eventually, Cain and Abel.
Book Review: A Complete Masterpiece!
Summary: 5 Stars
How does one write a review about "The East of Eden?"
It is so full of beauty that the words are still absorbing
inside of me--
Steinbeck is a master storyteller--and this book follows three generations of families and the choices they make in life, how each choice affects the next choice.
I adore how Steinbeck will throw universal messages in for the reader--deep directives about religion, racism, and most of all---how the choices we make in life NOW can be our down-fall in the end.
"East of Eden" is perfection--with its language, images, universality, humour, and profound intellegence.
I will not go into the characters--because one must read the enire book to get the entire essence--and you will not be the same afterwards. (But I will say "The Chinese Servant") is used by Steinbeck as a sort of wisdom, guru, conscience. He is superb.
"East of Eden" would not be the book it is without "Redemption"
and wouldn't you know it-- Steinbeck throws that in too!
*****This book will live forever***** Perfection.
Book Review: A Favorite
Summary: 5 Stars
This is one of those books that I was assigned to read in highschool, but quickly became one of my favorites. It's a good study on good versus evil and how people have a choice to be good (or evil). Don't read it just because Oprah said to. Read it because it's a great classic and a great read.Book Review: A Good Book
Summary: 4 Stars
Personally, I consider it to be the best work of Steinbeck. It is well-written, moves along well (with the exception of a few passages) and builds up characters (for the most part). It's not a perfect read, not a horrible one - but a good book. I can't say that about a vast majority of books.
The themes behind the book are far reaching and as old as any story's. Good verus evil, free will, and what truth is or can be. The use of Cain, Abel, and Timshell are laced in the idea of sin. There are characters and ideas that are quite good in nature and being, and those that are nearly pure evil. The outcome is a bit predictable and smacks of popular religion. The contrasts may be overdone and the characters a little too foreseeable, but it makes for a good read - and isn't that the point afterall...