"Of Mice and Men" is a novel by John Steinbeck that tells the story of two displaced ranch workers, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression. They dream of owning their own land, seeking a better life away from the hardships of their current existence. George is small and clever, while Lennie is large and strong but has a mental disability, which leads to challenges in their journey. As they work on a ranch, they encounter various characters, including Curley, the boss's aggressive son, and Curley's wife, who feels lonely and trapped. The story explores themes of friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life, ultimately leading to a tragic conclusion that highlights the fragility of their hopes.