The Beans of Egypt, Maine plot
"The world offered no forgiveness. The Beans offered no apologies."
Young Earlene lives right across from the dilapidated trailer of the poor Bean family. From her window she looks fascinated at the way the riotous Aunt Roberta and the insecure Reuben live. The whole village is outraged, but Earlene is drawn to the Beans because they are always so cheerful and loyal. One day she runs away from home, right into the arms of Reuben's younger brother Beal. Unaware of the fact that Roberta and Beal are having a sexual relationship, she eventually marries him. She has now joined the Bean family and will have to share their problems and discover their secrets.