11 Facts About John Steinbeck | Mental Floss
Hulton Archive/Getty Images John Steinbeck is one of the most popular authors of the 20th century, known for his deft social commentary and grasp on the lives of the everyday person. Born on February 27, 1902, this literary figure is remembered for novels like 1937's Of Mice and Men and 1939's The Grapes of Wrath, along with select nonfiction work and screenplays. Here are 11 facts about Steinbeck's life and career. 1. John Steinbeck's dog ate his original manuscript for Of Mice and Men. "My dog ate my work" is probably the oldest excuse in the book—but for Steinbeck, it was true. One ev...