44 pages • 1 hour read
224
Novel • Fiction
Key West, Florida • 1930s
2016
Middle grade
9-12 years
490L
Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm is a 2016 middle-grade historical novel set in 1934 Key West, Florida, during the Great Depression, where 10-year-old Beans Curry, facing local economic hardships, initially helps the criminal Johnny Cakes but learns the value of teamwork and community as he and his friends aid in the town's transformation into a tourist destination. The book includes themes of youth criminal activity, economic struggle, and illness.
Humorous
Adventurous
Nostalgic
Heartwarming
3,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jennifer L. Holm's Full of Beans captivates readers with its Depression-era setting and endearing protagonist, Beans Curry. Reviewers praise Holm's engaging writing style and historical accuracy. While most appreciate the humor and vivid characters, some feel the plot is slow at times. A delightful historical novel for middle-grade readers.
Readers who enjoy historical fiction with young protagonists, such as Holes by Louis Sachar or Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis, will love Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm. The book is perfect for middle-grade readers who appreciate witty, resourceful characters and a vivid depiction of the Great Depression era.
3,798 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Novel • Fiction
Key West, Florida • 1930s
2016
Middle grade
9-12 years
490L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.