The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

This is a truly great book.  It is an interesting story that is well-written, and it also makes you more aware of how things were during the Great Depression.  It made me want to help and make a difference for people who struggle similarly today.  It tells the story of the Joad family from Oklahoma.  They are evicted from their farm after their crops fail in the "Dust Bowl" and decide to move to California to seek a better life.  When they arrive in California, things continue to be extremely challenging for them.  This book is definitely worth the time it takes!