While not Steinbeck’s most famous, Cannery Row is, in my opinion, one of his best. A short meditation on a lively place and the collection of people both living there and passing through, this novel is a beautiful and nonjudgmental look at the foibles and follies of humanity, and the joy that often triumphs in spite of these. The story centers around a group of bums attempting to throw a party for their friend, the local marine biologist Doc (based on Steinbeck’s friend Ed Ricketts), but the storyline is secondary to the exploration of human nature and relationship found in its pages. Each character is unique and vivid and real, and all the disparate stories expertly weave together to create a tapestry of place and purpose.

Packed with heart and humor and philosophy and absolutely beautiful turns of phrase, this short novel is never inaccessible, but has a rare and remarkable depth to it that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more. The narration is honest but never cruel, reflective but not sad, hopeful but never delusional. Not to mention, this book has quite possibly the greatest opening paragraph to any novel ever. A+, no notes.