Educated by Tara Westover
There have been only three books in my life that I have read in one day - The Crown of Columbus by Louise Erdrich and Michael Dorris, A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson and this book, Educated by Tara Westover.
Tara Westover was raised in a Morman survivalist household in Idaho. Her father, with the assistance of the entire family, ran a junk yard. Tara's mother managed the household and eventually started a successful essential oils company. Homeschooling, distrust of major institutions (in particular the medical profession and government), self-determination, nature and mental health are all forces that swirl together to create an almost-unbelievable story. An almost-unbelievable story about a girl who recognizes the conflict between her personal strengths and her family, a girl who lives in that conflict and somehow transforms herself into a thriving young woman.
Like Allison Bechdel does with Fun Home,Tara Westover tells her story with honesty, grace and compassion. Both woman are testaments to the resiliency of the human spirit.
I could not put this book down. The personal story is compelling. At the same time, Ms. Westover respectfully addresses social forces that currently threaten our democratic society.
You really should read this book.
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