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The Pearl  By  cover art

The Pearl

By: John Steinbeck
Narrated by: Hector Elizondo
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Editorial reviews

Of John Steinbeck's many classic novels, only one is beloved by ninth graders everywhere. Finally in a definitive audiobook edition, The Pearl as read by Hector Elizondo is a long overdue treat for listeners of all ages. Whether you skipped this required reading in high school or simply don't remember much about it, now is the time to revisit Steinbeck's excellent little vision of an ancient Mexican folk tale about the perils of obsessive greed. A story of great symbolism and unflinching morality, the lessons here are no less true in our contemporary circumstances than they were hundreds of years ago.

Hector Elizondo is a perfect fit for this narration. Winner of an Emmy and an Obie, veteran of both screen and stage, Elizondo is no stranger to the gravitas of parables. Although he has contributed voice work to a dozen audiobook dramas with ensemble casts, this is the first time he has narrated a book completely on his own. What a treat to hear his familiar grizzled voice painting the scene of a tiny, impoverished town in need of a miracle. When a scorpion bites a young family man's infant son, the man becomes desperate for money to pay the doctor that can save the child's life.

Upon finding an enormous pearl deep in the water and just in the nick of time, the family begins to dream of their son's bright future. Elizondo puts his grit and gravel to good use conveying the tenacity with which the family clings to the idea of sending their son to school, thus escaping their meager life of poverty. But the enchanting music of the pearl speaks to the whole town, and soon all are clamoring for a piece of the family's good fortune. Hector Elizondo impeccably renders John Steinbeck's haunting admonition against avarice, and this short novel is a must-have for any audio library. Megan Volpert

Publisher's summary

In this short book illuminated by a deep understanding and love of humanity, John Steinbeck retells an old Mexican folk tale: the story of the great pearl, how it was found, and how it was lost. For the diver Kino, finding a magnificent pearl means the promise of a better life for his impoverished family. His dream blinds him to the greed and suspicions the pearl arouses in him and his neighbors, and even his loving wife cannot temper his obsession or stem the events leading to the tragedy.

For Steinbeck, Kino and his wife illustrate the fall from innocence of people who believe that wealth erases all problems. Originally published in 1947, The Pearl shows why Steinbeck’s style has made him one of the most beloved American writers: it is a simple story of simple people, recounted with the warmth and sincerity and unrivaled craftsmanship Steinbeck brings to his writing. It is tragedy in the great tradition, beautifully conveying not despair but hope for mankind.

©1945, 1973 Elaine Steinbeck, John Steinbeck IV, Thom Steinbeck (P)2011 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

"[The Pearl] has the distinction and sincerity that are evident in everything he writes." (The New Yorker)

"Form is the most important thing about him. It is at its best in this work." (Commonweal)

"[Steinbeck has] long trained his prose style for such a task as this: that supple unstrained, muscular power, responsive to the slightest pull of the reins." (Chicago Sunday Times)

What listeners say about The Pearl

Average customer ratings
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A classic fable that was well performed.

Loved it. It was a classic fable that was well performed. The story was memorable.

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The Pearl

My favorite author is John Steinbeck. I have loved all of his writings because his character development and writing style is so satisfying. Nectar for the mind. I highly recommend this Audible book with the finessed expressions by narrator and wonderful actor Hector Elizondo. I can’t imagine anyone more perfect for the reading of this short novel.

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The

A very nice book to read in the car and learn about in class too.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Timeless Classic

From the time the work was published in 1947 until the present, this work never ceases to provide insight into the nature of greed, of jealousy, and of humankind's misplaced priority of the worship of anything that has monetary value. It still amazes me, after so many readings, how moved I am at the story's end, and yet, how mercurial the story's theme is taken. If only we could truly learn and change as a result of understanding Steinbeck's insights. . .what a better world this would be.

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  • Overall
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Terrific

Everything about this presentation was fantastic. There was a lot of symbolism here, much of it not so abstruse. In place of all the other worthless detritus that secondary school students are forced to read, this would shine. But it is a great book for any age, so enjoy it. The narrator did a superlative job too !

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Nice book!

I liked this book, I was able to read it thanks to audible, good job with the book John Steinbeck!

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Outstanding story, The Pearl, by John Steinbeck.

Loved the story. Narrated by Hector Elizondo, with excellent inflection depicting it language.was rivited. Highly_Recommend.

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Steinbeck.

Would you consider the audio edition of The Pearl to be better than the print version?

Not really

Who was your favorite character and why?

This book is so not about a favourite character. It is about needs and choices.

Have you listened to any of Hector Elizondo’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have not heard Hector before. His reading here is perfect

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Sure. Not a long book

Any additional comments?

Beautiful description of the characters and the dilemmas they face. So Steinbeck

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6 people found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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Great for middle school students

Where does The Pearl rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

It was recorded very well and keeps the listener engaged.

What did you like best about this story?

The overall theme of the story. There are a lot of lessons that can be learned about how far people will go for greed.

Which scene was your favorite?

The ending when the main character and his wife throw the pearl into the ocean.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When the main characters lost their child. They were hoping the pearl would bring a better life for their child, but it ended up costing him his life.

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Well written, well narrated

Well written, well narrated. I'm about to listen to it again. However, the ending will leave a pit in your stomach.

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