Many books seem to have different impacts on our lives. Some we simply glance over, others we finish in what seems like just a few hours and a few seem to stick with us for the rest of our lives. The book “Educated” by Tara Westover is one of those books for me.
Author Tara Westover made the brave decision to write a story where she exposes her entire life story to the public. She grew up in an unconventional and rather toxic environment, one which formed the person that she has become today. I wouldn't have even been introduced to the memoir if I hadn’t been required to do so for my English class, but I am more than thankful that I received the privilege to read her memoir.
Westover grew up in a very religious, extremely unconventional and educationally-deprived environment. She had a large family, each person having their own quirks and unique traits that never failed to captivate me. The general belief in her family was that the outside world was bad and that it wasn’t a necessary part of their lives and therefore it should be avoided at all costs.
Westover highlights the importance of education and how it drastically changed her life, especially since she often didn’t have one growing up. The book also goes into detail about abuse and how it is something that severely affects people, but can also be overcome with the right support and determination.
Junior, Ella Irving states, “Personally, I think Educated made me more aware of the fact that I am privileged. I have so many resources and opportunities available to me to learn about the world that not everyone has access to.” during an interview.
The topic of ignorance due to a lack of education is widely discussed in the memoir. Many times while reading the book, I was questioning some of the things that characters did. If they simply weren’t educated properly, would their wrongful actions be considered okay?
Overall I think that everyone should take the time to read this book. It is one that you won’t stop thinking about and debating until days after you have actually finished it. There are many questions that will be left unanswered and will continue to be contemplated.
Westover did a wonderful job of telling her life story and captivating readers so that they were eager to begin every single chapter. You can get a copy of Educated at the Watauga Public Library or the Watauga High School media center. I can’t wait to read more of her work!
Written By: Abby Graham
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