I am 14 years old and read Of Mice and Men for my 8th grade literature class. I usually don't like sad books, but this is DEFINITELY an exception. This is a tragic tale of friendship, love, and sacrafice, and I am crying just thinking about the end. Steinbeck tells life as it was in the '30s, never making life perfect and easy. My class and I watched the movie in class, and no one had dry eyes at the end. This book is not to be missed by anyone.