The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds

Beatrice Hunsdorfer, a middle-aged widow, lives with her daughters Ruth and Matilda as they struggle to survive in a society they barely understand. Beatrice dreams of opening an elegant tea room but lacks the means to realize this lofty goal. Epileptic Ruth is a rebellious adolescent, while shy but highly intelligent and idealistic Matilda seeks solace in her pets and in school projects, including one designed to show how small amounts of radium affect marigolds.