The Jungle, by Upton Sinclair, became an instant classic in 1906, and has become perhaps one of the most cited books in history and political science classes across the United States, according to to Dustin LaBarge (LaBarge par.1). Sinclair's novel has generated worldwide awareness of the abhorrent meatpacking industry. I found the book intriguing because of the details added to make sure nothing was left out. There were moments in the story that I felt were too detailed causing me to lose interest, but overall I found that I learned something that I probably wouldn't have known about. The story is based on the life of two newly married Lithuanians, Jurgis and Ona. The story begins with the wedding reception, in Packingtown, the purpose of which is evident from the title. The two look forward to their future together, but dark clouds are already forming in the distance. When the ceremony comes to an end, they discover that they have not raised enough money to pay for the reception in full. Some men in Packingtown are in the habit of attending ceremonies without invitation and without paying. This is Ona and Jurgis' first sign of what's in store for them. The family immigrated to the United States in hopes of finding the American dream, as people call it. Life in Lithuania was tough and they had heard nothing but good things about America. Throughout the novel Sinclair continually praises Jurgis' physical strength and enormous size to predict what will happen to him as the story continues. The family sees all the men outside the packing plants waiting to be chosen for a job and immediately becomes hesitant about the decision to come here. Jurgis, however, has no problem being picked out of the cro... middle of paper... petition procedures would cost the government a large amount of money. As he said, "I aimed at the audience's heart and accidentally hit them in the stomach." Sinclair's wishes were ultimately fulfilled, however, by legislation in the second half of the 20th century that would protect and promote workers' rights. The Jungle offers vivid imagery and a fantastic storyline that should be an integral part of any book collection. (Schlosser pg. 2) It is difficult, in my opinion, to stay connected to the book with the long paragraphs without interruption, and the details that seem to last forever. There were absolutely some weaknesses in the book, but there were also strengths that were described by the author. Sinclair leaves out no detail, no matter how grueling. If he was trying to make people understand the injustice that was happening in Chicago at the time, he certainly succeeded.