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  • East of Eden

  • By: John Steinbeck
  • Narrated by: Richard Poe
  • Length: 25 hrs and 23 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (17,847 ratings)

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East of Eden

By: John Steinbeck
Narrated by: Richard Poe
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Publisher's summary

This sprawling and often brutal novel, set in the rich farmlands of California's Salinas Valley, follows the intertwined destinies of two families - the Trasks and the Hamiltons - whose generations helplessly reenact the fall of Adam and Eve and the poisonous rivalry of Cain and Abel.

©1952 John Steinbeck; Renewed 1980 Elaine Steinbeck, Thom Steinbeck, and John Steinbeck IV (P)2011 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"A novel planned on the grandest possible scale...One of those occasions when a writer has aimed high and then summoned every ounce of energy, talent, seriousness, and passion of which he was capable.... It is an entirely interesting and impressive book." (The New York Herald Tribune)

"A fantasia and myth...a strange and original work of art." (The New York Times Book Review)

"A moving, crying pageant with wilderness strengths." (Carl Sandburg)

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What listeners say about East of Eden

Average customer ratings
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A time capsule for Chinese American history

Besides all the great things said by other reviewers, this book is one of the few American novels of its time that presents a complex (also idealized) character in Lee, a first-generation Chinese American. It also records the treacherous roads Chinese immigrants had to undergo and the ensuing prejudice they had to endure in America in the time period depicted. Hats off to a great writer and voice of the social conscience in Steinbeck!

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The storyline

My favorite Steinbeck novel. Often overshadowed by most well-known of his works. Read it.

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Touching story about parents and children

I loved almost everything about this book, except first the racist references that felt like punches. The narrator is outstanding and Steinbeck’s storytelling is so captivating that I plan to read at least a few more of his works.

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Timeless

Narration was excellent and story was a page turner: couldn’t put it down. There are personal takeaways that are helpful to me

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Greatest story of all time

Such a transformative book in my life. This book helped me understand my biggest insecurities and complexes. I'm glad I was able to listen to this.

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Amazing

Wonderfully read and love the story of all the characters and the narrator as well

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An amazing story.

This family story is one of the best stories I’ve ever read. The characters are unforgettable.

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Thought provoking book

Loved it and would recommend the book to everyone. A masterpiece that is thought provoking today.

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The deep recognition of the complicated human condition was poignant. This story demands personal reflection.

I loved it all. I didn’t want it to end. I think that was the point. It never does.

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Wisdom and wit. Steinbeck understood people.

The depth of the characters personas and psyche is a treasure. A tale of generational journeys, and poetically written.

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