Of Mice and Men is a novella written by John Steinbeck. Published in 1937, it narrates the experiences of George Milton and Lennie Small, two displaced migrant ranch workers, who move from place to place in California in search of new job opportunities during the Great Depression in the United States. (wikipedia)
Themes dealt with are: dreams, loneliness, friendship, relationships, power and economic injustices.
Many teachers do not consider this adult book suitable to be studied in school as it has upsetting themes and scenes (for example, when intellectually challenged " Lennie" accidentally smothers his pet mice, chokes the boss's wife to death and is later shot by his best friend, to name but a few). It also contains a lot of profanity and cursing which is uncomfortable for many of the students as well as the teacher, when it comes to reading aloud in the classroom.
Verdict: For the reasons cited above, IrishParents does not recommend this book for study in the classroom at Junior Level. However, this is still a classic novel and is worthy of being read at Senior level.
My daughter keeps telling me how horribe it is to hear the cursing and "Jesus Christ" constantly being read aloud in the classroom. She never volunteers to read because of this. My wife and I do not allow this kind of language in our home. This is not an appropriate book in the classroom.
Paul C. Co.Dublin
I am angered that the Lord's name is taken in vain every day when this book is read aloud by my son's teacher. In my country (Nigeria) we have more respect. This book should not be in the schools.
Ola O, concerned parent.
My daughter found this book too "heavy" and boring. This is more suited to senior level, if at all. The shocking shooting of Lennie was very upsetting for her.
Aine L. Co.Dublin