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East of Eden

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( 561,394 ratings, 32,285 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
John Steinbeck's East of Eden is an epic tale set in California's Salinas Valley, focusing on the complex destinies of two families, the Trasks and the Hamiltons. The novel explores themes of good versus evil, illustrating the struggles of its characters to overcome their pasts and the moral dilemmas they face over generations.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy multi-generational family sagas, rich character development, and themes of good versus evil. With its setting in California's Salinas Valley, the narrative delves deeply into the human condition and moral dilemmas, making it a thought-provoking and engaging read.

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East of Eden

Follows the intertwined destinies of two families - the Trasks and the Hamiltons - whose generations hopelessly re-enact the fall of Adam and Eve and the poisonous rivalry of Cain and Abel.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Set against the backdrop of the fertile Salinas Valley in California, East of Eden is a profound and compelling novel by John Steinbeck, one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. This masterful narrative charts the intertwining destinies of two families—the Trasks and the Hamiltons—across multiple generations. Steinbeck's intricate portrayal of human nature and enduring exploration of moral themes make this a timeless piece of literature.

The story begins with the patriarchs of the two families, Adam Trask and Samuel Hamilton. Their lives, marked by personal struggles and triumphs, reflect the broader human condition. The novel delves deep into their experiences and the experiences of their descendants, capturing the essence of their hopes, desires, and failures. As the tale unfolds, both families repeatedly confront the same age-old conflicts, echoing the biblical narrative of the fall of Adam and Eve and the harrowing rivalry of Cain and Abel.

Steinbeck masterfully blends rich characterisations and lush descriptions of the Californian landscape, creating an immersive reading experience. His characters are etched with such detail and nuance that they remain memorable long after the final page is turned. Each figure, from the virtuous Samuel Hamilton to the brooding and enigmatic Cathy Ames, adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

Among the novel's central themes are the mysteries of identity and the unfathomable nature of love. Steinbeck probes these questions with a keen, empathetic eye, considering how identity is shaped and transformed over time and how love, in its various forms, can both uplift and devastate. The absence of love, its potential to engender violence and cruelty, is also a critical element of the story, culminating in moments of poignant emotional weight and moral ambiguity.

Originally published in 1952, East of Eden remains a compelling exploration of good and evil, choice and destiny. This modern classic continues to resonate with readers, offering insights into the enduring struggles and triumphs of the human spirit.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

John Steinbeck's East of Eden has been praised for its grand scale and the remarkable energy, talent, seriousness, and passion Steinbeck brought to the narrative. Critics describe it as a fascinating blend of fantasia and myth, and a profound, original work of art. It’s considered a powerful and moving pageant, with Oprah Winfrey and her book club members hailing it as possibly the best novel they've ever read.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141185071

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 September 2000

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Introduction by David Wyatt

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 438g

Pages: 640

About the Author

Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck is remembered as one of the greatest and best-loved American writers of the twentieth century. His complete works will be published in Penguin Modern Classics.

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