Hardcover, 256 pages
English language
Published July 16, 2001 by Longman.
Tortilla Flat (1935) is an early John Steinbeck novel set in Monterey, California. The novel was the author's first clear critical and commercial success. The book portrays a group of 'paisanos'—literally, countrymen—a small band of errant friends enjoying life and wine in the days after the end of World War I. Tortilla Flat was made into a film in 1942. Steinbeck later returned to some of the panhandling locals of Monterey (though not the Mexican paisanos of the Flat) in his novel Cannery Row (1945).
I read this one aloud to my partner a little at a time over the course of a few weeks. It was fun, like a comedic soap opera. It's slow paced, and the characters are cute. If you liked Cannery Row you'll feel right at home with this one.
