Books matching: growing up poor
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- #1
Save:A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith is a heartwarming coming-of-age story set in the early 20th century Brooklyn, following the life of young Francie Nolan as she navigates poverty, family dynamics, and the pursuit of education. Through vivid descriptions and deep emotional connections, readers are immersed in the struggles and triumphs of Francie and her family, painting a rich picture of life in Brooklyn during that era.
SERENE WAS A WORD YOU COULD PUT TO BROOKLYN, NEW YORK. Especially in the summer of 1912. Somber, as a word, was better. But it did not apply to Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Prairie was lovely and Shenandoa... 'Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis' by J.D. Vance is a memoir that offers a glimpse into the life of the author as a hillbilly, shedding light on the struggles of the white working class in rural America. The book delves into Vance's personal experiences growing up in the Rust Belt, highlighting issues such as unstable family structures, drug abuse, and the importance of strong family bonds. Vance reflects on the culture of poverty and the challenges faced by individuals trying to break free from its cycle, drawing parallels between his own upbringing and the broader societal issues affecting working-class whites.
The narrative of 'Hillbilly Elegy' oscillates between being a personal memoir and a sociological study, providing insights into the complexities of the white working class while also sharing Vance's journey of overcoming obstacles to achieve success. The author's writing style is described as direct, honest, and compelling, offering a raw portrayal of life in Appalachia and the struggles faced by individuals trying to navigate poverty, addiction, and limited opportunities for advancement.
Like most small children, I learned my home address so that if I got lost, I could tell a grown-up where to take me. In kindergarten, when the teacher asked me where I lived, I could recite the addres...- #3
Save:Angela's Ashes is a powerful memoir by Frank McCourt that delves into his childhood growing up in poverty in Limerick, Ireland. The book vividly portrays the struggles faced by the McCourt family, including extreme poverty, alcoholism, and loss of siblings. Despite the bleak circumstances, McCourt's writing style combines humor with tragedy, offering a poignant and emotional account of his upbringing.
The narrative follows Frank McCourt from his boyhood to his late teens, chronicling the hardships and adversities he faced while highlighting moments of resilience and hope. Through McCourt's honest and raw storytelling, readers are immersed in the bleak yet sometimes hopeful world of a poverty-stricken Irish family, offering a unique perspective on survival, family dynamics, and the impact of poverty on childhood.
My father and mother should have stayed in New York where they met and married and where I was born. Instead, they returned to Ireland when I was four, my brother, Malachy, three, the twins, Oliver an... - #4
Save: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.
I WAS SITTING IN a taxi, wondering if I had overdressed for the evening, when I looked out the window and saw Mom rooting through a Dumpster. It was just after dark. A blustery March wind whipped the ... - #5
Save:'Coming of Age in Mississippi' by Anne Moody is an autobiography that provides a raw and honest account of growing up as a young black girl in the rural south during the 1950s and 1960s. The author's narrative delves into her experiences with racism, poverty, and segregation, as well as her involvement in the civil rights movement. Moody's writing style is described as personal, insightful, and eye-opening, offering readers a firsthand look at the challenges faced by African Americans during this pivotal period in American history.
The book follows Anne Moody's journey from her childhood in poverty in rural Mississippi to her active participation in civil rights activities, including sit-ins and voter registration efforts. Moody's storytelling is filled with pain, anger, and frustration as she navigates through a society rife with racism and injustice. Her strong sense of identity, bravery, and determination shine through as she confronts systemic racism, police corruption, and the struggles faced by the black community. Through Moody's narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of the hardships endured by African Americans and the courage displayed by those who fought for equality.
I’m still haunted by dreams of the time we lived on Mr. Carter’s plantation. Lots of Negroes lived on his place. Like Mama and Daddy they were all farmers. We all lived in rotten wood two-room shacks.... - #6
Save:'All Over But the Shoutin'' by Rick Bragg is a memoir that delves into the author's childhood memories and his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful writer. The book narrates the story of overcoming obstacles, reaching goals against all odds, and the deep devotion of a boy to his mother. Bragg writes with style, wit, and compassion, offering a heartfelt account of growing up poor in the South and the impact of familial relationships on his life.
The narrative captures the struggles of poverty, dysfunctional family dynamics, and the author's rise to becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. Bragg's writing style is described as powerful, evocative, and emotionally generous, with a focus on authenticity and storytelling. The book resonates with readers through its poignant depiction of courage, adversity, and the unconditional love of a mother, making it a compelling and touching read.
I used to stand amazed and watch the redbirds fight. They would flash and flutter like scraps of burning rags through a sky unbelievably blue, swirling, soaring, plummeting. On the ground they were a ... - #7
Save:'We Are Never Meeting in Real Life.' by Samantha Irby is a collection of raw and honest essays that delve into the author's experiences as a black woman in America. Irby shares her struggles with anxiety, chronic illness, and dating, all while infusing her writing with humor and wit. The book offers a glimpse into Irby's life, where she fearlessly exposes her innermost thoughts and secrets, creating a relatable and entertaining narrative for readers. Through her quirky storytelling, Irby explores themes of self-deprecation, love, and the challenges of navigating through life's uncertainties.
I am squeezed into my push-up bra and sparkly, ill-fitting dress. I’ve got the requisite sixteen coats of waterproof mascara, black eyeliner, and salmon-colored streaks of hastily applied self-tanner ... - #8
Save:Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart is a heart-wrenching novel set in the impoverished neighborhoods of Glasgow in the 1980s. The story follows young Shuggie as he navigates life with his alcoholic mother, Agnes, and his dysfunctional family. The book delves into themes of addiction, poverty, courage, and love, painting a vivid and raw portrait of life in the slums of Glasgow. Through Stuart's poignant writing, readers are taken on a journey filled with despair, hope, and the unwavering love between a son and his troubled mother.
The day was flat. That morning his mind had abandoned him and left his body wandering down below. The empty body went listlessly through its routine, pale and vacant-eyed under the fluorescent strip l... - #9
Save: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.
My strongest memory is not a memory. It’s something I imagined, then came to remember as if it had happened. The memory was formed when I was five, just before I turned six, from a story my father tol... - #10
Save:'Steve Jobs' by Walter Isaacson is a detailed biography that delves into the complex life and personality of the iconic tech visionary. Through the eyes of various readers, the book is described as a fascinating exploration of Jobs' genius, his abrasive personality, and his relentless pursuit of perfection in creating groundbreaking products like the iMac, iPod, and iPhone. The narrative not only highlights his successes in revolutionizing the tech industry but also sheds light on his flaws, including being a difficult person to work with due to his demanding nature and temperamental behavior.
Isaacson's writing style in 'Steve Jobs' is praised for its balance between portraying Jobs as a visionary and a flawed individual. provides a comprehensive account of Jobs' life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a tech titan, capturing the essence of his passion, creativity, and uncompromising attitude towards innovation. Readers appreciate the deep insights into Jobs' management techniques, his impact on modern computing, and the history of Apple, making it a compelling read for those interested in understanding the man behind the Apple empire.
While a student in McCollum’s class, Jobs became friends with a graduate who was the teacher’s all-time favorite and a school legend for his wizardry in the class. Stephen Wozniak, whose younger broth...
