During World War II, hard-luck farmer Colvis Nevels leaves his rural Kentucky home to take a factory job in bustling Detroit. Reluctantly accompanying Colvis is his long-suffering wife, Gertie, a talented woodcarver set in her traditional ways. When the perils of city life and Colvis' reckless squandering of money send the Nevels into precarious financial straits, Gertie starts a business making hand-carved dolls in order to provide for her family.

Jane Fonda
as Gertie Nevels

Levon Helm
as Clovis

Amanda Plummer
as Mamie

Susan Kingsley
as Sophronie

Ann Hearn
as Max

Robert Swan
as Victor (as Bob Swan)

Geraldine Page
as Mrs. Kendrick

Jason Yearwood
as Reuben

David Brady Wilson
as Enoch

Starla Whaley
as Clytie