East of Eden by John Steinbeck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Looking for a book that’s philosophical meanderings and gorgeous prose will make you dizzy? Searching for a story that will leave you intellectually and spiritually fulfilled? Longing for action and intrigue? Then East of Eden is the book for you! The novel that Nobel prize winner John Steinbeck described as the pinnacle of his career, East of Eden is an intricately woven literary masterpiece. Spanning three generations, East of Eden is a twisted version of the Bible tale of Cain and Abel. The story begins with Adam, an innocent, pure, young man whose childhood is a struggle against his abusive half-brother, Charles. Meanwhile, we meet Cathy, a twisted Eve, a monster incapable of feeling emotion for others. Their sons, Caleb and Aaron struggle as the opposing sides of human nature battle inside them. Steinbeck introduces countless subplots, each worthy of its own book. The story of Lee, the intellectual immigrant and Samuel Hamilton, who is based on Steinbeck’s grandfather. Despite being built on a biblical story, the book is more contemplative and generally spiritual than specifically Christian. East of Eden can be described as nothing other than an epic saga about all of humanity. It will touch your soul. – Meilan S. ’17
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