From the Bookshelf of Never too Late to Read Classics…

The Pearl

John Steinbeck

Start date: August 1, 2021

Finish date: August 31, 2021

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Sep 13, 2021 Ileana rated it really liked it · review of another edition

This story is quite sad. And I found it even sadder because it could be perfectly true, and because the kind of abuse towards indigenous people described on it is still ongoing. I liked how the author compares feelings and emotions with songs, and I also liked his prose very much. This is my first Steinbeck and I look forward to read more of his works.

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Jul 05, 2013 Zuzana rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: classics, 2013-challenge

It's a retelling of a Mexican folk tale. A poor fisherman finds a priceless pearl but is besieged by tragedy and the greed of those around him.

“For it is said that humans are never satisfied, that you give them one thing and they want something more. And this is said in disparagement, whereas it is one of the greatest talents the species has and one that has made it superior to animals that are satisfied with what they have.”

The story illustrates a strong moral lesson. In that respect it remin ...more

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Jul 01, 2025 adele rated it really liked it

Shelves: classic-shelf

First Steinbeck in a while and it’s good to be back

The myth-like quality of his work read more like a fable to me this time, maybe because of its short length. I was engaged the whole time, not knowing exactly what would happen even to the very end. I did enjoy the vagueness of the people after them, but the rating gets bumped down to a 4 for the only intentional murder seems to just go by like nothing…

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