Steinbeck, John: 1902-1968

Of Mice and Men, 1937 - Thematic Parallels: Friendship

Friendship is a close and trusting relationship between people who care about each other.
Steinbeck, John: Of Mice and Men, 1937
The story focuses on a deep friendship between two ranch hands, contrasting it with the profound loneliness experienced by other characters.
The following books are thematically simliar. They lend themselves well to being read in groups, compared with one another, or used to teach a similar topic over an extended period with a class:
- Draper, Sharon: Copper Sun, 2006, ~300pp
  While focused on slavery and survival, the story has strong themes of friendship and endurance under harsh conditions.
  - Both "Copper Sun" and "Of Mice and Men" explore friendship, oppression, hopes for a better life, and the harsh realities that threaten those dreams. They show how people cling to one another and to their dreams to survive in unjust, violent worlds.
- Kidd, Sue Monk: The Secret Life of Bees, 2002, ~300pp
  This novel deals with friendship and community, much like the bond seen in “Of Mice and Men,” where friendship provides solace and support.
  - Both stories center on characters who long for connection and find “chosen family” when biological family has failed them. They show how essential human connection is for survival and emotional stability.
- Orwell, George: Animal Farm, 1954, ~90pp
  While allegorical and political, this nonvel shares the exploration of social struggle and injustice found in Steinbeck’s work.
  - Both works show how the vulnerable are manipulated by stronger forces. They suggest that violence is built into unjust systems and critique societies that treat workers as disposable.
- Wright, Richard: Native Son, 1940, ~400pp
  This novel delves into the life of a young African American man facing systemic oppression but also relationships that reflect personal survival and connection.
  - Both novels portray characters who are trapped by social and economic forces beyond their control. Violence emerges not from inherent evil but from fear, misunderstanding, and lack of escape.
List of general discussion questions on Friendship (pdf)
List of essay prompts on Friendship (pdf)