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.

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.