The Beatification of Shirley

Set against a backdrop of rigid beliefs and familial turmoil, the story explores the Whitford family's struggles with faith and identity. Conrad rejects new ideas, while Lorraine blindly follows his lead, enforcing Biblical imperatives that stifle their children. Norman grapples with his sexuality, Randy conforms despite inner conflict, and Shirley becomes a victim of overprotection, ultimately revered as a saint. In contrast, adopted Beverly questions everything, leading to family discord. As Conrad's paranoia escalates, the family's fate spirals toward disaster, attributed to divine intervention.