Functions as more of a political treatise of sorts rather than a straightforward narrative, which exposes the ill-treatment of low-wage workers, particularly cheated immigrants, in early 20th century America. Through the medium of a tragic fable, Sinclair strives to represent Capitalism at its worst, and with bitter and explicit detail, sheds light on the injustice and evils that would be potentially concealed by the untrained eye. He advocates the cause of Socialism in its place and he makes a remarkably convincing argument for the undecided.

Personally, I found the story itself too tedious and predictable, and the characters a bit cold and detached; too much of a cautionary tale to make for a pleasurable read (like Black Beauty or The Red Pony for people). Nonetheless, the book is well-written with a sense of poignancy, and the concepts are both significant and inspiring.
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Very depressing. ( )

As moving as I was told it'd be; a true classic in an unconventional way. ( )

It's been some time since I read this, and I don't recall any details but still have a positive feeling about the book. ( )

I dare anyone to read this novel and continue to believe that laissez-faire capitalism is the best economic system. Although Sinclair inserts a lot of pro-socialist propaganda at the end of the Jungle, the harrowing story of Jurgis Rudkus and his family demonstrates the ways that the average worker is exploited not only by the corporation but also the political machine. ( )