In "The Bean Trees," Barbara Kingsolver explores the struggles and resilience of individuals trying to find their place in a flawed world. The characters navigate various challenges, demonstrating that while the world may be filled with injustices and hardships, they can still strive to create positive change in their lives and communities. The book emphasizes the importance of making the best choices possible despite the circumstances.

The quote highlights the central theme of the novel: the need to take action in the face of adversity. By focusing on what can be done to improve their situation, the characters embody hope and determination. Kingsolver suggests that even in a world that often feels wrong, individual efforts can lead to meaningful differences, reinforcing the notion that every small step towards improvement matters.