Far from the doomed cross-country voyage of 'Grapes of Wrath' lies 'Cannery Row,' one of the sweetest books I've ever read. The characters are so human in their needs, desires, thoughts, and actions, and Steinbeck clearly loves them for all of their flaws. You'll fall in love with every character just like they all love each other in this romantic little seaside community. The magic of the storytelling lies in the perfect balance of playful humor and profound melancholy. It's the work of a master at the height of his craft.