The insensitivity between neighbors leads to the gradual disintegration of a small California farm community.

Ownership of a red pony teaches ten-year-old Jody about life and death.

Steinbeck's novel features Ethan Allen Hawley, formerly of the New England aristocracy but now a humble grocery clerk. Inspiring little but resentment in his wife and daughters, Ethan nevertheless does his utmost to live an honest life. Every man, however, has his breaking point, and Ethan risks his integrity and much more as he embarks on what he hopes will be a path back to wealth and privilege.