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

Middle-aged widow Beatrice Hunsdorfer and her daughters Ruth and Matilda are struggling to survive in a society they barely understand. Beatrice dreams of opening an elegant tea room but does not have the wherewithal to achieve her lofty goal. Epileptic Ruth is a rebellious adolescent, while shy but highly intelligent and idealistic Matilda seeks solace in her pets and school projects, including one designed to show how small amounts of radium affect marigolds.

Cast

Joanne Woodward Beatrice Hunsdorfer

Roberta Wallach Ruth Hunsdorfer

Judith Lowry Nanny

Nell Newman Matilda Hunsdorfer

David Spielberg Mr. Goodman

Richard Venture Floyd

Carolyn Coates Mrs. McKay

Will Hare Junk Man