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.

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

**Beans Curry**  
The 10-year-old protagonist and narrator who lives in Key West, Florida, during the Great Depression. His resourcefulness and interactions with family and friends lead him to make decisions impacting his sense of morality and responsibility.

**Kermit Curry**  
Beans's younger brother, often accompanying Beans and demonstrating innocence and vulnerability throughout the story. He deals with various illnesses that highlight the family's struggles.

**Johnny Cakes**  
A local criminal who influences Beans by involving him in illegal activities. His character adds mystery and danger to the Key West setting.

**Dot**  
A bold girl who frequently challenges Beans, offering a rivalry that turns into a surprising camaraderie. She plays a significant role in Beans’s personal growth.

**Mr. Julius Stone, Jr.**  
A New Deal administrator working to revitalize Key West through tourism. His interactions with Beans evolve from comedic annoyance to mutual understanding.

**Murry (The “Haint”)**  
A mysterious figure initially seen by Beans at a movie theater, later revealed to have leprosy. His character encourages Beans to view the world differently and more empathetically.

Jennifer L. Holm

Middle grade

Novel

Turtle in Paradise

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Full of Beans reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Full of Beans | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Full of Beans and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Full of Beans Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Full of Beans Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Full of Beans Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Full of Beans Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

Full of Beans Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-24 and Author’s Note

Full of Beans Chapters 21-24 and Author’s Note Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Full of Beans Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Full of Beans Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Full of Beans Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Full of Beans Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Full of Beans Essay Topics

Full of Beans

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Full of Beans?

Reading Age

Book Details