After a long wait, I finally read a book over the summer break! I’m thrilled to say that the drought is over and I am once again enjoying my time with my nose in a book. What got me back into the grove? This amazing biography of American author, John Steinbeck.
Mad at the World is not a dry biography at all. Souder examines Steinbeck’s life and world in a conversational manner set against riveting explorations of world events. It is so important that we never forget that artists — authors, composers, painters — are never creating their works in a vacuum. The impact of their surroundings and world events cannot be ignored. Souder did an excellent job of merging the two sides of this complex reality that left this reader wanting even more.
Souder’s biography is not just about Steinbeck’s life and relationships. Souder examines each of the author’s works, providing a brief synopsis of the overall plot without disclosing too many spoilers. I have read many of Steinbeck’s works over the years, but it was nice to have an introduction to some of the lesser known works as well. I’ve added a few of them to my TBR as a result of reading this work. I especially found the discussions between Steinbeck and the staff of Viking Publishing quite interesting.
A fascinating read that has me thinking about future reading projects. I especially found myself interested in learning more about the presidencies of Hoover and FDR. I’ve considered beginning to read biographies of the 20th century men who have held this highest political office. Obviously, the other potential project is reading more biographies of major American authors. While this definitely intrigues me, I can’t come up with a way to put a measurable outline on the project. I need to know where the “end” is going to be in order to declare the project completed.
What’s next on the agenda? I’m moving back into fiction for a bit. I’ve picked up a paperback that grabbed my attention this spring and am now fully engrossed in After the End by Clare Mackintosh. I’ll let you know how it goes!
Reading for Me 