In Search of America by John Steinbeck (1990-01-01)

Steinbeck's tone is jovial and leads the reader on. His narrative is easy and enjoyable to read. It is also very much a product of its time. Writing in a period that was defined by the turmoil that attended racial integration, Steinbeck captures the character of the era well. Besides being enjoyable as a travel book, the work captures a snapshot of one of the most significant changes that occured in the period it was written.

Steinbeck is a joy to read. He struggles with the book himself and admits this. However it is a good look back at his impression of events during the late 60's. Of course things have changed, but not all and his impressions and reflections still hold true for many issues.

Reading Steinbeck today, one can understand why he continues to remain a superb author. This book makes you want to experience for your self what so many of us can't do. Those that can, should take this book along and read as you go. Think I'll go rent a camper and see what I have been missing.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading Steinbeck' s journey with Charley, his dog-- full of insight about being human. I especially liked his observations about the journey being over .before it was over -- so often true in our own life experiences. :)

Classic Steinbeck story; it's totally enjoyable to re-read after decades. Amazing his experience is
probably not too different from today, despite over 50 years ago. Perfect new copy; prompt delivery.

Although I enjoyed reading this book again, I was a little disappointed. I can't remember why I loved it so much when I was about 20 years old (I'm 75 now), but I thought I remembered his poodle, Charlie, having more of a role in the book. It's still a good book and he is definitely a great writer.

Please, do yourself a favor and read this book. I have always been a fan of Steinbeck and honestly, this is one of my favorite books of his. A really great read, and readable in a weekend too!

Cheers

Re-read this wonderful book this year. It was wonderful to read it with 2014 eyes, and the book says as much about 1970s America as it does about Steinbeck and his journey across the country with his beloved poodle, Charley. Well worth another look. As always, Steinbeck's writing is great.

Steinbeck at his most personal best. The stories that he tells as he meanders around the United States are wonderful snapshots of an almost forgotten America yet one that still exists if you are willing to drive around this great country. Steinbeck was a great listener as well as a great writer.

A nostalgic quest through 1960 America, a man and his dog in a camper. Wrapped up far too quickly but long trips like that tend to go that way. Charlie sort of steals the show for me but then I have a soft spot for poodles. Not sure whether this is entirely factual or not but it doesn't matter to me: it's entertaining and thats what I wanted.

I love the way Steinbeck writes, he is simply brilliant. This book was so much fun to read, and it really gives you an insight to Steinbeck's thoughts on America and people in general.

The ending wasn't as strong as I hoped, but nonetheless it was still great.

This a journal of an ordinary person touching the experiences of being in a free society. Free to travel, free to speak and listen and to question. A nice read that encourages its reader to visit the adventure long after the last page is turned. Beautiful

Good read in parts but inconsistent. (Especially vs. other Steinbeck books)
End of book seemed abbreviated (final few episodes including his time in Texas and the south) vs earlier part of book.
Charlie, Steinbeck's dog, also seemed to get somewhat lost in the shuffle as the book went on. (Early stuff on Charley was hilarious and vintage Steinbeck.)
Still a pretty good read in spite of these things.

I am from California and this was mandatory reading when I was in Middle school. I bought it for a friend who just bought a camper and we read it on a trip. 40 years later and I still love it. I love Steinbeck and this book does not disappoint. Good read from any age.

Neatly done, but this is basically a Penguin paperback book with a hard cover glued on after the fact. Being a paperback (internally), the binding is not the quality you would expect to find on something advertised as a "hard cover" book. Additionally, advertised product dimensions are 0.9 x 5.9 x 7.5 inches. Actual dimensions are 0.9 x 4.3 x 7.6 inches (typical paperback size). Great reading, but if you want a true hardcover (size and quality) I recommend a good used one as a better deal.

Simply written through the eyes of a famous author and his dog I identified with his travels and the sadness of the south in the sixties. My perspective was that of a 10 year old who grew up in the north knowing nothing about the segregated south until I traveled with my parents through the south with New Jersey plates . Truly an eye opening experience. Reading this book now as a 60 + adult transported me back to the sixties and put into words something I could never never have expressed. A great read especially for an older adult