<DIV>John Steinbeck wrote <b>The Grapes of Wrath</b> during an astonishing burst of activity between June and October of 1938. Throughout the time he was creating his greatest work, Steinbeck faithfully kept a journal revealing his arduous journey toward its completion. <p> The journal, like the novel it chronicles, tells a tale of dramatic proportions?of dogged determination and inspiration, yet also of paranoia, self-doubt, and obstacles. It records in intimate detail the conception and genesis of <b>The Grapes of Wrath</b> and its huge though controversial success. It is a unique and penetrating portrait of an emblematic American writer creating an essential American masterpiece.</DIV>