The Pearl cover
CE Pick ✦

The Pearl

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Overview & Summary

A poor pearl diver named Kino discovers an extraordinarily large and valuable pearl that he believes will transform his family's fortunes and secure medical treatment for his sick baby, but the pearl instead brings greed, violence, and tragedy down upon them as everyone around him schemes to take it. John Steinbeck's parable-like novella is a meditation on the corrosive power of wealth and the false promises of fortune.

Available Formats

  • 🎧Audiobook
  • 📖Hardcover
  • 📱Kindle
  • 📖Paperback

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Who This Book Is For

Recommended for High school students (Grades 9–12) working on English Literature. Fits students building reading confidence, vocabulary, and strong comprehension.

Grade LevelUpper (9-12)
Lexile ComplexityHigh School & Up (1100L+)

Why CE Recommends This Book

A foundational Classic text. Reading canonical literature builds deep comprehension, exposes students to mature writing styles, and prepares them to write thoughtful essays and participate in classroom discussions.

Academic & Admissions Takeaways
Grade & Readiness: Aligned for Upper (9-12).
Lexile Complexity: Targeted for High School & Up (1100L+).
Subject Alignment: Builds vocabulary, reading stamina, and analytical skills for English Literature.
Reading Goal: Lexile growth, classroom discussion readiness & essay depth.