Product details

Full of Beans is a lively and heartwarming historical fiction novel by Jennifer L. Holm, set in the 1930s during the Great Depression. The story follows Beans Curry, a 12-year-old boy living in Key West, Florida, where life is tough, but his spirit is anything but defeated. Beans is a quick-witted, energetic, and somewhat mischievous boy who is always trying to find ways to make a little extra money for his family, whether it's through small jobs or creative schemes. When Beans gets involved in a local community project involving the Works Progress Administration (WPA)—an initiative to help provide jobs during the Depression—he begins to see that there’s more to the world than just getting by. Along the way, Beans learns valuable lessons about friendship, family, responsibility, and the importance of working together for the greater good. He also navigates the complexities of growing up, dealing with the pressures of trying to help his family while discovering who he really wants to be. With its richly developed setting, relatable characters, and a perfect balance of humor and heart, Full of Beans is a captivating story about resilience, hope, and finding joy even in difficult times. Jennifer L. Holm masterfully combines a personal coming-of-age story with a broader historical context, making the book both an engaging read and an opportunity to learn about a pivotal time in American history. Perfect for middle-grade readers, Full of Beans highlights the power of perseverance and the importance of community in the face of adversity.