The book is based on the story of Paul, an Italian American young man, struggling to provide for his mother, Annunziata, and his siblings after the demise of his father, Geremio, at a construction site. Geremio is a hardworking man who works as a brick-layer. Annunziata is not happy with her husband’s work and she questions its dangers. Geremio is used to work for long hours despite low wages. During Good Friday, an accident occurs and many lives are lost. Annunziata is pregnant because Geremio was the sole breadwinner of the family. Although Paul is a young boy, he decides to fill his father’s shoes. Therefore, he decides to work as a bricklayer.
Luigi, Annunziata’s brother, vows to provide for her and her children. Unfortunately, he gets an accident and loses one leg. During all this time, Annunziata keeps on praying to Christ to guide her. Paul visits Luigi in hospital. Luigi has fallen for one of the nurses. Annunziata receives a letter from Compensation Bureau. The agency wants to help Annunziata to get compensated for her husband’s death. During the case, the owner of the building blames Geremio and his co-workers for their deaths. Besides, he describes them as lazy and careless.
The hard labor, low pay, and unfavorable working environment make Paul stressed. As Paul struggles to provide for his mother and siblings, the Great Depression hits. Many workers lost their jobs. After observing what was happening, Paul starts questioning the existence of God. He wonders why Christ fails to provide for his followers. The book points out the ironic thoughts and hopes of people before immigrating to the U.S.
