Writing (Andrew has the ability to do it)

Anyone looking for a light, casual, happy and whimsical read is sure to be surpised by Jon Steinbeck’s tortilla flat. Unlike The Pearl or The Grapes of Wrath, this book reads fast and is entertaining all the way through. The characters are all well written and each chapter is a different story concerning the “Paisanos” of Monterey who live in Tortilla Flat. A Paisano, as John STeinbeck said hin his book, “is a mixture of Spanish, Indian, Mexican and assorted Caucasian bloods. His ancestors have lived in California for a hundred years or two.” (pg 2).

The book takes place after World War I as Danny and his paisano friends slowly make their way back to tortilla flat one by one after their service in the war. Danny is left with 2 house that belonged to his late uncle, houses which he uses to shelter his friends from the cold night air. After one house is burned, only one remains to shelter Pilon, Pablo, Jesus Maria, Big Joe, The Pirate and his dogs. These 6 friends spend their time together in the small town of Tortilla Flat stealing, drinking wine, begging, and committing righteous deeds for each other. The book ends in glorious tragedy, and all the friends disband.

I love this book because of the memorable characters, language, and stories. This book has shown me the sweetness of camaraderie and the innocence and good in even the most grown of men.