The Bean Trees

by Barbara Kingsolver
The Bean Trees cover
Good Books rating 4.44
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10670
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-03-10
  • ISBN: 9781853810381
  • Publisher: Virago Press
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Taylor Greer, a plucky young woman from rural Kentucky, sets out on a journey to escape her impoverished upbringing and avoid pregnancy. Her adventure takes a dramatic turn when she becomes the guardian of an abandoned baby girl she names Turtle. Together, they head to Tucson, where they encounter a diverse and extraordinary array of people who help Taylor build a new life for herself and her daughter./n/nIn Tucson, Taylor and Turtle find a community that supports and nurtures them. The story is a heartwarming exploration of found family, resilience, and the power of community. It's a tale that blends humor, drama, and a touch of magical realism, making it a compelling read.

Reviews
Reddit - IReadABookAndAdoredIt · 2026-02-02
adored 5.00

The novel reads like a classic, with characters and scenery that jump off the page. It's a five-star read that leaves a lasting impression.

This Redditor compares 'The Bean Trees' to classics like 'Anne of Green Gables', praising the way the characters and scenery come to life. They found the book to be a five-star read, highlighting its ability to leave a lasting impression. The reviewer appreciates the novel's unique blend of humor, heart, and depth, making it a standout read that they couldn't put down. The characters are particularly memorable, adding to the overall enjoyment of the story.

Quick quotes

    It reads like Anne of Green Gables or the Golfinch where the people and the scenery just jump out and grab you!

    It's a five-star in my opinion.

    Such a great book, I couldn't put it down.

Kate Forsyth's Blog · Kate Forsyth · 2026-02-02
heartwarming 4.50

The novel's big heart and emotional depth make it a compelling read, despite some minor flaws. The unfulfilled romance adds a layer of sadness that resonates deeply.

Kate Forsyth highlights the emotional depth of 'The Bean Trees', praising its big heart and the way it handles complex themes. She finds the characters and their relationships to be the strongest aspects of the novel, making it a deeply moving experience. The unfulfilled romance is a particular standout, adding a layer of sadness that lingers long after the book is finished. While there are some minor flaws, Kate is willing to overlook them because of the novel's overall impact and the way it resonates with readers on an emotional level.

Quick quotes

    The Bean Trees has such a big heart, I'm willing to forgive these minor flaws.

    And, yes, there is a hint of a very sweet, very sad unfulfilled romance along the way.

    The characters and their relationships are the strongest aspects of the novel.

Winona Media · 2020-10-01
uplifting 4.00

The novel explores themes of damage and healing, with a rich mix of colloquial language and off-beat characters. The central theme of hope shines through, making it a powerful read.

This review from Winona Media emphasizes the novel's exploration of damage and healing, highlighting the rich mix of colloquial language and off-beat characters that bring the story to life. The central theme of hope is particularly noteworthy, making 'The Bean Trees' a powerful and uplifting read. The reviewer appreciates the imaginative plot and the way it balances serious themes with moments of levity, creating a well-rounded and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    This novel is about great damage and great healing.

    From a rich mix of colloquial language, off-beat characters, and an imaginative plot, a central theme of hope.

    A powerful and uplifting read.

bookwanderer.wordpress.com · Bookwanderer · 2010-04-12
nostalgic 4.25

The book evokes the radical spirit of the 60s and 70s, touching on social justice and ecological themes. The early setting and character development are particularly noteworthy.

Bookwanderer finds that The Bean Trees beautifully captures the essence of the radical 60s and 70s, addressing themes of social justice, ecology, and adoption rights. The early setting of the novel adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity, making the characters and their struggles feel more relatable. The reviewer particularly enjoys the character development, finding it both nuanced and engaging. The novel's ability to tackle serious issues with a blend of humor and heart makes it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    This book reminded me of the radical 60's and 70's.

    Social justice, ecology, immigration, adoption rights, etc.

    Also I liked the early setting, and the character development.

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