The Grapes of Wrath is a seminal novel by John Steinbeck that chronicles the hardships of the Joad family during the Great Depression. Driven from their Oklahoma farm by drought, economic hardship, and bank foreclosures, the Joads embark on a perilous journey to California in search of work and a better life. Along the way, they encounter exploitation, social injustice, and the harsh realities faced by migrant workers. Steinbeck's narrative delves into themes of human dignity, solidarity, and the quest for justice, making it a poignant reflection on America's social landscape.