A Journey into Steinbeck's California

February 15, 2006
Though he won both a Pulitzer and a Nobel prize, 20th-century American icon writer John Steinbeck was often reviled in his lifetime. This book takes the reader through the unique landscape revealed in this complex writer -s books. Shillinglaw (English, San Jose State Univ.), a scholar in residence at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, CA, draws a rich portrait of Steinbeck -s California, even if at times her text has the tone of a doctoral thesis. Areas covered in depth are Salinas ("East of Eden"), the Monterey Peninsula ("Tortilla Flat" and "Cannery Row"), and Los Gatos (where Steinbeck lived and wrote "The Grapes of Wrath"). For those who would follow Steinbeck farther afield, his time in Mexico, Baja California, and New York is included. What gives this book a place on any library -s shelves is its excellent historical background on places of significance to Steinbeck, complemented by clearly defined maps for locations and buildings. Lavishly illustrated with historic photographs and contemporary scenes by photographer Nancy Burnett, "Steinbeck -s California" concludes with a time line of the writer -s life, extensive notes, and a comprehensive index. Highly recommended." -Janet Ross, formerly with Sparks Branch Lib., NV"

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