The Moon is Down by John Steinbeck is a novel about a small, unnamed town in a European country that is occupied by a foreign army during World War II. The townspeople are initially confused and frightened by the occupation, but they soon begin to resist the invaders in a variety of ways. The mayor of the town, Orden, is a key figure in the resistance. He tries to maintain a sense of normalcy in the town while also working to undermine the occupation. The invaders, led by Colonel Lanser, are initially confident that they will be able to control the town. However, they soon find that the townspeople are more resistant than they expected. The novel explores the themes of resistance, courage, and the human spirit. It also examines the nature of war and the impact it has on both the occupied and the occupiers.