Incredible historic account of what life was like during the "dust bowl". A story of hardship that is very different from today's society of comfort even during hardship. A classic story of a family who tries to make it through even when all else fails.

I find this novel is a great descriptor about the basics of human peril. I particularly enjoyed the chapters that well described the scenario of conditions of mid-west migrants to California during the time period of this story. I would also recommend reading the intro about the author. What a surprise the ending is! As well, when Tom's name is mentioned as one of the the cotton-pickers.

Great book. Makes me want to explore deeper into such a significant part of American History. Listen to Bruce Springsteen's Ghost of Tom Joad for that added effect.

THE novel to enjoy...anytime...a true artist.

This is an amazing story about a brave, amazing family. The book is so deep that multiple thematic connections can constantly be drawn and little references to the Bible can be gleaned from this book. The title itself is very meaningful. no matter how many times you read this book, each time you will discover something new.

my favorite book of all time. Tells the timeless tale of how pain and loss make people more compassionate and empathetic.

Truly one of the greatest works of fiction in the English language. Beautifully written, evoking a time and place so thoroughly and perfectly that you feel you're right there and a story so involving and absorbing that you remember the feelings it gave you for years afterwards. One not to be missed.

This book was extremely thought provoking and drove me to research more about this dust bowl/depression era. The characters were interesting and possessed a common sense type of wisdom and iron cast familial bonds. This book reminds you not to take for granted the food on your table or that clean, warm bed you climb into at night. I hesitate to say I enjoyed the book because of the weighty topic but it was a definitely compelling read.

This is considered a classic for good reason. It is a vivid and detailed account of a snapshot in time of American history.

Outstanding. Check out Surviving the Dust Bowl, a DVD documentary on the same topic. It's on the shelves at epl