When I opted to borrow this audio book, I was not aware that it was a memoir. Not that I have anything against memoirs; but they are not what I usually gravitate toward when looking for something to read (or listen to).
Tara was born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho. Well, she says survivalists, I say cult, but whatever. There was no formal education, they were fairly isolated from mainstream society. There were no doctor's visits, no dental visits. Instead the family relied on the mother's (a herbalist) remedies - even for the most horrific injuries. There was unspeakable violence in the family usually caused by one brother - and though it wasn't voiced, it made me think other horrific things may have also happened (this is pure speculation on my part though but based on one conversation with her sister I did have to wonder).
It was only after one other brother got himself into college, did Tara begin to wonder if there might be another life out in the world for her. This brother encouraged her and at the age of 17, Tara found herself in a classroom for the first time. And the world unfolded in front of her. She was able to travel the globe and meet a multitude of people and her eyes were opened to how her life might be now that she was free.
I found this to be a haunting book - one that I am still thinking about days and days later. Definitely would recommend.
So what about you? Do you gravitate toward memoirs or no? Nicole, I already know your answer! ;-)
I read Educated when it came out and thought the arc of her life was fascinating. Kudos to her for going on for higher education. But what a tragic family situation.
ReplyDeleteIn answer to your question, memoirs are my ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE type of book to read. A good memoir cannot be beat in my opinion. Love, love, love them.
The arc of her life WAS fascinating. But the family situation...OOF!
DeleteHahaha yes I do like memoirs but I did not like this one - not because it wasn't well done, it sure was, but because it was SO upsetting. I am so glad she got out of her situation but what a trauma. I was so upset the whole time reading it! Also, my son studied it in grade 12 English and he loved it.
ReplyDeleteI figured you didn't care for this one because it was upsetting. Although, I will say, I may have to look into more memoirs after this...
DeleteI read this when it first came out. It was also on Pres. Obama's booklist. I had mixed feelings about it, mainly because I saw her upbringing as abuse, plain and simple. I marveled at her matter-of-fact telling of such a terrible story, and at times, I had to put it down because I got angry, really angry. I get the whole message, but wow! tough, tough read.
ReplyDeleteIt never crossed my radar when it came out, so I just stumbled over it a week or so ago. I agree her upbringing was nothing but pure abuse. I can't tell you how many times in the middle of my walk I would stop and say, WTF out loud.
DeleteI generally find that people who write memoir think their lives are more interesting than I think their lives are. That means it's a no for me. Even this one. A lot of people have suggested I read it, but I don't think I'm the audience!
ReplyDelete"I generally find that people who write memoir think their live are more interesting than I think their lives are." This is EXACTLY, why I don't gravitate to memoirs usually. As I said, at first I didn't realize this was a memoir when I downloaded it. But I do have to say the writing was spot on and she knew how to tell her story - even if most of it was extremely upsetting. That's why I even thought to review it; because here I am weeks later still thinking about it.
ReplyDeleteI like memoirs of folks near the end not in the middle of their lives.
ReplyDeleteI imagine memoirs published later in life would probably be more interesting and reflective. Although, this one was incredibly reflective.
DeleteI have heard of this book, and always wrote it off as "not for me," but your review has made me really curious about it! Kind of reminds me of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls (if you haven't read that one, I recommend it!). I occasionally enjoy memoirs, especially celebrity memoirs, and especially if they are on the fluffier, chattier, gossipier side. Heavy stuff doesn't generally pull me.
ReplyDeleteIt gives you a peek into a whole different type of family. I found it interesting and something I couldn't wait to get back to. I haven't read The Glass Castle; but have added it to my list!
DeleteI read this book a few years ago for book club. It blew me away. I like memoirs and this one - I couldn't put it down.
ReplyDeleteI imagine it did. The whole family dynamic was wild. The fact that she was able to escape was unbelievable. I also couldn't get away from this one.
DeleteI sometimes enjoy a memoir. I've heard a lot about this book, but I don't know if it's for me. It sounds like a horrific childhood was dealt to these kids. Kudos to her for finding a way out and breaking the cycle.
ReplyDeleteIt was a horrific childhood; but she didn't realize it at the time because they were so isolated.
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