John Steinbeck is the famous American writer known for his novel "The Grapes of Wrath," published in 1939. The book is a powerful portrayal of the struggles faced by migrant families during the Great Depression, particularly those displaced from their homes in Oklahoma and seeking a better life in California. Steinbeck's work highlights social issues such as poverty, injustice, and the plight of the working class. The novel gained critical acclaim, earning Steinbeck the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1940 and solidifying his status as one of America’s foremost literary figures. Its themes continue to resonate, reflecting ongoing struggles for social justice.