The novel follows the Tull family, whose life is shaped by the abandonment of the father, Beck. Their mother, Pearl, raises her three children—Cody, Ezra, and Jenny—alone in a strict and often emotionally cold household.
As they grow up, each child is affected differently by their difficult childhood:
Cody, the eldest, becomes resentful and competitive, convinced he is less loved than his brother.
Ezra, gentle and caring, tries to create a sense of family unity by opening a restaurant called the Homesick Restaurant.
Jenny, the youngest, searches for stability through her relationships and career.