The book follows the Joad family, Oklahoma farmers displaced from their land during the Great Depression. The family, alongside thousands of other "Okies," travel to California in search of work and a better life. Throughout their journey, they face numerous hardships and injustices, yet maintain their humanity through unity and shared sacrifice. The narrative explores themes of man's inhumanity to man, the dignity of wrath, and the power of family and friendship, offering a stark and moving portrayal of the harsh realities of American migrant laborers during the 1930s.

The book is a tragic tale of two displaced ranch workers during the Great Depression in California. The two main characters, an intelligent but uneducated man and his mentally disabled companion, dream of owning their own piece of land. However, their dreams are thwarted by circumstances beyond their control, leading to a heart-wrenching conclusion. The book explores themes of friendship, dreams, loneliness, and the harsh realities of the American Dream.

The book delves into the question of what we should have for dinner. It explores the paradox of the omnivore's dilemma, detailing the food chains that link farm to table, and explaining how the industrial revolution has changed the way we eat. The book also discusses the implications of our modern diet on our health and the environment, suggesting that we should return to more traditional methods of food production and consumption. It advocates for a more conscious and sustainable approach to eating.

This narrative centers around a young boy's journey through early life on a California ranch, exploring themes of responsibility, loss, and coming of age through his interactions with a series of ponies. The boy's dreams and realities collide, particularly with the gift of a red pony, leading to profound lessons about life, death, and the complexities of human and animal relationships. Through vivid storytelling and rich symbolism, the story delves into the harsh realities of nature and the process of growing up, capturing the emotional landscape of youth and the inevitable passage into maturity.

This novel is a poignant tale that centers around the life of a young Chicana girl, Estrella, and her migrant family as they navigate the hardships and injustices faced by farm workers in the United States. Set against the backdrop of the California grape fields, the narrative delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the quest for dignity amidst exploitation. Through lyrical prose, the story explores the family's struggles with poverty, labor exploitation, and the constant threat of deportation, while also highlighting their unwavering hope, love, and the strength found in their cultural heritage and community bonds. The title symbolizes both the burden of their toil and the spiritual grounding that sustains them.