I liked it and thought it was well written, but I didn't love reading it. ( )

"Cannery Row" is a book about characters. There is no real plot until towards the end, but instead it's a conglomerate of stories and anecdotes about the people in a small California town.

This was my first Steinbeck novel, though I know the story of "Of Mice and Men", and he has instantly become one of my favorite authors. Despite the lack of any plot, the novel leads the reader through some other, unknown linear fashion. I couldn't put my finger on it, but the book does have a direction. Even if it didn't, though, Steinbeck was such a phenomenal author, and I found myself laughing out loud at more than several anecdotes throughout the book.

It's not action-packed, though I found myself eagerly reading through it just because it was so enjoyable. This is one of those books I can see myself lazily reading in the warm sunshine beside a bubbling little brook in a peaceful woodsy area, of which there are no such places here in Las Vegas.

I will definitely be reading more Steinbeck, as this book is one of my top ten favorites now. ( )

Many years ago I watched the movie with Nick Nolte and Deborah Winger on cable - over and over again. Loved the movie. The book is slow paced, and John Steinbeck says at the very beginning (if you pay attention) that it is a collection of short stories. There's no major story line here; it's just a character study of the folks that make up Cannery Row and how they take care of each other in their own unique way. I watched the movie years ago, and read the book years ago, and have re-read it a few times since then. If you have a dry sense of humor, and appreciate excellent writing; this book is for you. Those who want some excitement in their books - well, you're not gonna find it on "the Row". You will find some larger than life and very colorful - and unforgettable - characters. ( )

My very favorite Steinbeck. In fact, I chose it as the November read for my literature class. In Cannery Row Steinbeck is at his most charming. His love and admiration for his characters comes through loud and clear. The gentle style and keen insight into the residents of Cannery Row will give any reader an appreciation for characters on the fringes of society. No reader can help but learn not to "judge a book by its cover"

And added bonus, if you have the right edition, is the introduction by Susan Shillinglaw. Susan Shillinglaw is the most engaging and interesting Steinbeck scholar I've found. Her introduction is filled with insights into the text and the characters. ( )

This is a book I will read over and over again. I fall in love with the characters each time I read it! ( )