Home › Books made into movies › East of Eden
East of Eden (1955): Film vs Book
Film · 1955 · Directed by Elia Kazan · Starring James Dean, Julie Harris
About the film
A son seeks his father's love in a California family.
How close is it to the book?
Loosely based on the bookThe film covers only the last part of the novel, so large parts of the family story are missing.
Read or watch first?
The novel is epic in scope, covering generations.
What the book gives you
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
A rich, deeply human story that makes you think about your own choices and family. Generous, wise and unforgettable.
Who will like it: Readers who want a big, emotional family saga about choice, love and what we pass on.