James Allen Mitchell

Okie James Allen Mitchell

John Steinbeck shined a spotlight on the struggles of "Okies" during the 1930s Depression when Midwesterners followed the arc of Route 66, chasing the California Dream. One such family of Okies abandoned the state because Fast Eddie could not hold down a job, abused his wife and son and tried unsuccessfully to stay one step ahead of the bill collectors.

Life improved in California for the men of the house. Fast Eddie made it big as a stunt man in Hollywood. Son Jimmy Boy became a young screenwriter. Everyone realized their dream in the Golden State except for Betty Mae.

Despised and taunted by her new neighbors, victimized again by her worthless husband, and increasingly estranged from her beloved son, Betty Mae struggles to keep her self-identity.