15. John Steinbeck
John Steinbeck’s powerful social novels illuminate the lives and struggles of ordinary Americans during times of upheaval and hardship. Works like The Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men stand out for their empathy, vivid characters, and piercing social critique. Steinbeck’s storytelling continues to resonate, capturing the resilience and dignity of those facing adversity. His Nobel Prize-winning legacy is explored in detail by the Nobel Prize organization.
