Steinbeck searches for America and finds that it is full of paradoxes just like he is. I suppose in searching for America, Steinbeck truly discovers himself as he reckons with his younger self, his present self, and the reputation he has developed as an author. For the most part this is a good read, even if it is slower paced. This is also a snapshot of an America in 1962, where Ruby Bridges is going to school with grown adults screaming at her and JFK is about to become President. It's an America that should be far from this one but it's really not - it's the present America but on simmer. It's pretty interesting to see, and maybe a little depressing too.