what are two books that crooks owns? Crooks' reading habits reveal much about his character and past experiences.

what are two books that crooks owns? Crooks' reading habits reveal much about his character and past experiences.

In the novel “Of Mice and Men,” published in 1937 by John Steinbeck, George Milton and Lennie Small form an unlikely bond with Crooks, the stable buck who is ostracized from the main characters due to his race. While Crooks is often depicted as a lonely figure, his book collection offers a glimpse into his inner world and his hopes for the future.

One of the two books that Crooks owns is Moby Dick by Herman Melville. This choice speaks volumes about Crooks’ intellectual curiosity and desire for knowledge beyond the confines of his limited existence. Moby Dick is a complex novel that delves into themes such as obsession, the nature of evil, and the human struggle against nature. By owning this book, Crooks demonstrates his ability to appreciate and engage with profound literature, even in the face of societal discrimination.

The second book that Crooks has is The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. This classic novel explores themes of friendship, morality, and racial injustice through the eyes of Huck Finn, a young boy on a raft down the Mississippi River. For Crooks, this book serves as a reflection of his own journey and his aspirations for freedom and acceptance. The journey of Huck and Jim (the escaped slave) highlights the idea of breaking free from societal expectations and prejudices, which resonates deeply with Crooks, who yearns for respect and equality despite his marginalized status.

Crooks’ ownership of these two books also underscores the importance of literature in shaping one’s identity and worldview. These works offer a window into the broader cultural and historical context of the time, allowing Crooks to connect with the broader narrative of humanity and its struggles. Furthermore, they provide him with a sense of companionship and shared experience, even when physically isolated from others.

In conclusion, Crooks’ book collection reflects his complex personality and his deep-seated desire for understanding and connection. Through the lenses of Moby Dick and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, we gain insight into his intellectual curiosity, his longing for acceptance, and his resilience in the face of adversity.


Questions:

  1. What are the two books that Crooks owns in “Of Mice and Men”?
  2. How do Moby Dick and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn relate to Crooks’ character and experiences?
  3. Why might Crooks’ possession of these books be significant in the context of the novel?