Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck is a classic novella set during the Great Depression. It follows two displaced ranch workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, who dream of saving enough money to own a piece of land and live independently. George is small and sharp-witted, while Lennie is large and strong but mentally challenged, and their bond is both protective and tragic. As they struggle for stability and hope, they encounter a series of events that test their friendship and ultimately lead to heartbreaking consequences. Steinbeck’s work explores themes of friendship, loneliness, dreams, and the harsh realities of life for the marginalized.