Of Mice and Men

John Steinbeck's classic novella follows the friendship between George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers during the Great Depression who dream of owning their own farm. The story explores themes of friendship, loneliness, and the American Dream while depicting the harsh realities faced by marginalized people including those with intellectual disabilities, as Lennie has a developmental disability that affects his understanding and behavior. The narrative addresses social issues of the era including economic hardship, discrimination, and the treatment of vulnerable individuals in society.