Whilst in parts harrowing, but always compelling, the descriptive writing was considered by the group to be so good that we immediately added another book by Steinbeck to our future reading list.

The strength and resilience of character shown by these people was nothing short of astonishing. You come to realise that we are all struggling in our own ways, and whilst fear can lead to great inhumanity, it can also bind people closer together.

It is known as one of the classics for a reason.

Set during the Great Depression, this novel focuses on a poor family of tenant farmers driven from their Oklahoma home by drought, economic hardship, changes in the agricultural industry and bank foreclosures. They migrate to California in search of work, dignity and a better life, only to encounter exploitation, poverty and hostility.