57 pages • 1 hour read
The Pearl
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Book Brief
96
Novella • Fiction
La Paz, Mexico • 1900s
1947
YA
12+ years
1010L
Super Short Summary
The Pearl by John Steinbeck follows Kino, a poor Mexican pearl diver, who discovers an enormous pearl that he believes will transform his family's life. Instead, the pearl brings a series of escalating conflicts involving greed and violence as Kino attempts to protect his find and sell it for a fair price. Through Kino’s struggle, Steinbeck critiques themes like colonialism and the effects of wealth. Topics in this guide include domestic violence, murder, and gun violence against a child.
Dark
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
252,496 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Steinbeck's The Pearl garners mixed reviews. Praise highlights its lyrical prose, compelling moral dilemmas, and vivid portrayal of human greed. Critics, however, mention the narrative's predictability and simplicity. Despite varying opinions, it remains a thought-provoking novella exploring complex themes with timeless relevance.
Who Should Read The Pearl?
Readers who appreciate The Pearl by John Steinbeck are typically drawn to compelling moral dilemmas, richly detailed settings, and poignant social commentary. Fans of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men or Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude would likely find similar enjoyment in this novella.
252,496 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Juana
Juana
Kino’s resilient and attentive wife, who cares for their son and provides a stabilizing presence for Kino during their struggles.
Coyotito
Coyotito
The infant son of Kino and Juana, whose scorpion sting sets off a series of events that drive the story's plot.
The Doctor
The Doctor
A European settler providing medical services in La Paz, initially refusing to treat Coyotito due to Kino's inability to pay.
The Priest
The Priest
A religious leader in La Paz, who expresses interest in the pearl and uses his position to influence the villagers.
The Pearl Dealers
The Pearl Dealers
Businessmen who buy pearls from local divers, representing a monopolistic system that manipulates prices to their advantage.
The Hunters
The Hunters
Three men who track Kino and Juana as they flee La Paz, underscoring the elements of danger in the narrative.
The Beggars
The Beggars
Individuals who beg near the church in La Paz, known for observing and gathering information about village happenings.
Juan Tomás
Juan Tomás
Kino’s older brother, who provides guidance and represents kinship and cultural wisdom throughout the story.
The Neighbors
The Neighbors
Fellow villagers who congregate during significant events, expressing support and curiosity about Kino and Juana's fortunes.
96
Novella • Fiction
La Paz, Mexico • 1900s
1947
YA
12+ years
1010L
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