Hi friends!
Welcome to Leslie’s Library. Although I usually write about my life and adventures, book reviews are a relatively new journey for me. I, however, like to challenge myself and here we are.
On average, I read 2-3 books a month. My goal with Leslie’s Library is to share a book I enjoyed (or didn’t) and hopefully, help you find your next read.
There will be no set theme; I read all genres and I usually collect books from local Little Free Libraries.
My first review will be on *drum roll please* Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck.
I’m unfamiliar with Steinbeck’s most revered books including East of Eden and The Grapes of Wrath.
That being said, I read Cannery Row earlier this year and was enchanted by his prose. When I saw this book for $20 at an antique market (a first edition, mind you), I knew it had to be mine.
Now that I’ve read the book, here’s my honest review!
Title:
Travels with Charley: In Search of America
Year it was published:
1962
Summary:
Steinbeck and his dog, Charley, go on a road trip across America. Along the way, they make new friends and ponder the strangeness of the nation.
Steinbeck states early on that his intention is to become well acquainted with a country he feels like he no longer knows, despite writing about it throughout his career.
My thoughts on the book:
While reading Travels with Charley: In Search of America, I truly felt like I was on the road trip with Steinbeck. He takes the reader on a journey of discovering the U.S. while simultaneously reminiscing about his own life.
Steinbeck alludes that this is his last chance to make the trip due to bad health and he died a few years after the book was released.
Although it was written decades ago, I think this book remains as relevant as ever. Steinbeck discusses racial tensions in the South and how culturally different America truly is (which inevitably leads to a divide).
Moreover, he implies that this alienation felt amongst Americans will increase as technology continues to evolve.
Travels with Charley is uncomplicated, humble, and humorous. It gave me insight into the kind of person Steinbeck was. I get the sense that he was depressed (like most writers) but still optimistic.
Charley, his travel companion, is a dog. Steinbeck, however, attributes many human qualities to him. This makes me feel like he is talking more about himself than he is about Charley.
My favorite quote:
"A sad soul can kill you quicker, far quicker, than a germ."
Rating: 4.5/5
You can purchase Travels with Charley: In Search of America on Thriftbooks