Books Like...

Hill Women: Finding Family and a Way Forward in the Appalachian Mountains by Cassie Chambers is a memoir that covers the author's life and her family's journey from Appalachian sharecropping to her accomplishments as an Ivy League grad and a legal aid lawyer in Kentucky. The book highlights the strength and resilience of the women in her family, portraying their hard work, support, and values that have shaped her life and career. Chambers writes about the challenges faced by the people in Appalachia, focusing on the positive aspects of the community and the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a memoir that delves into Walls' tumultuous childhood growing up in poverty with two unstable and neglectful parents. Walls details astounding anecdotes of her unconventional upbringing, showcasing a family that lived an offbeat, nonconformist lifestyle. The book portrays the struggles of the author and her siblings as they navigate through a challenging and unusual childhood, fending for themselves and raising each other while their parents prioritize their own desires over responsibilities.

Walls' writing style is described as compelling, emotional, and honest, drawing readers into her story with vivid descriptions and a witty voice. The book offers a window into a world that many readers may never experience, shedding light on themes of resilience, forgiveness, and love in the face of adversity. The narrative unfolds through a series of shocking and heart-wrenching events, leaving readers both saddened and inspired by the author's journey from a difficult past to an uncertain future.

In "Winter's Bone" by Daniel Woodrell, the story follows Ree Dolly, a strong 17-year-old girl from the Ozarks, who takes on the responsibility of caring for her family when her parents fail. Her father has skipped bail, leaving the family at risk of losing their home. Ree sets out to find him, dead or alive, delving into the harsh poverty and dangerous world of the Ozarks. The novel portrays a stark and gritty existence, filled with violence, poverty, and a code of silence that dominates the community. Woodrell's writing is intense and powerful, painting a vivid picture of Ree's struggle for survival and the complex characters she encounters.

The book is a raw and tragic coming-of-age story set in a world that is both familiar and brutal, where Ree must navigate through backwoods crime and betrayal to protect her family. Woodrell's storytelling captures the harsh realities of life in the Ozarks, with lyrical descriptions of the landscape and characters that feel real and complex. The novel unfolds with a compelling plot, driven by a strong female protagonist facing challenges that test her resilience and strength in a world where family bonds are paramount.

Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood growing up in Idaho in a dysfunctional family. Tara's father, a strict Mormon and anti-government supporter, forbids her from attending school, leading her to work in the family's scrap yard instead. Despite the isolation and abuse she faces at home, Tara eventually breaks free and pursues education, earning scholarships and grants to study at prestigious universities like Cambridge and Harvard. The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, survivalism, mental illness, and the transformative power of education.

Barbara Ehrenreich's 'Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America' follows the author's journey as she immerses herself into the working class by taking on various low-wage jobs such as waitress, Wal-Mart employee, housecleaner, and hotel maid. Through her experiences, Ehrenreich sheds light on the struggles and hardships faced by those living on minimum wage in America. The book offers a personal and engaging account of the challenges of making ends meet while working multiple jobs, providing insights into the daily lives of the working poor in different parts of the country.

Ehrenreich's writing style is described as witty, engaging, and self-deprecating, making the book a compelling read from start to finish. The author's investigative approach and firsthand experiences offer a unique perspective on the realities of low-wage work in America, challenging readers to consider the difficulties faced by those at the margins of society. Through her narrative, Ehrenreich prompts reflection on issues such as welfare reform, poverty, and the working conditions of the underprivileged, making 'Nickel and Dimed' a thought-provoking exploration of the American Dream and its limitations.

The Sound of Gravel by Ruth Wariner is a memoir that dives into the harrowing experiences of the author growing up in a polygamist community in Mexico. Through clear-eyed prose and unwavering courage, Wariner recounts the hardships and abuse faced by her family, showcasing her survival and ability to thrive despite the adversities. The book offers a detailed and vivid account of Ruth's challenging childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, highlighting themes of resilience, courage, and the human spirit.

In 1936, deep in the woods of eastern Kentucky, lives Cussy Carter, a 19-year-old member of the historical Pack Horse Library Project, who is also known as a Blue due to her blue skin. The book follows Cussy's journey as she delivers books to the impoverished hill people of Eastern Kentucky, facing prejudices and challenges along the way. The novel sheds light on race, poverty, and the love of literature, offering a unique perspective on what it means to be an outcast in society.

The story is told in the first person by Cussy, also known as Bluet, as she navigates through the challenges of being a pack horse librarian, dealing with poverty, hunger, and the coal mining industry in the mountains of Kentucky. The book delves into the historical context of the Pack Horse Librarians and the Blue People, intertwining their stories to create a compelling narrative that explores themes of prejudice, poverty, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Arlie Russell Hochschild, a sociologist from UC Berkeley, delves into the world of conservative right-wing individuals in Louisiana, aiming to understand their beliefs and deep stories. Through her immersive research, she uncovers the resentment, anger, and feelings of being left behind that drive the political ideologies of Tea Party members and Trump supporters. The book explores the paradox of individuals in a heavily polluted state vehemently opposing environmental protection measures, shedding light on the emotional and ideological factors that shape their views on politics and society.

"Running with Scissors" by Augusten Burroughs is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood and adolescence. Living with a mentally ill mother, he is sent to live with her psychiatrist, Dr. Finch, where he navigates bizarre and dysfunctional relationships, including a love affair with an older man. The book is a darkly humorous and candid portrayal of a dysfunctional family dynamic, exploring themes of abuse, resilience, and survival. Burroughs' writing style blends humor and honesty to create a unique and engaging narrative that delves into the author's unusual life experiences.

'The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion' by Jonathan Haidt delves into moral psychology from an evolutionary perspective, proposing a theory of Moral Foundations that underlie observable moral systems. Haidt's exploration of the drives behind people's feelings of right and wrong offers insight into actions driven by tribalism or politics. also provides copious data on experimental results, making it a thought-provoking read that sheds light on human behavior and the development of social manifestations of morality.