134 pages 4 hours read

Tara Westover

Educated: A Memoir

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2018

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting her journey from a strict, isolated upbringing in a radical Mormon family in Idaho to obtaining a PhD from Cambridge University. Restricted from formal education and medical care, Westover enters Brigham Young University at 17, faces immense challenges, and ultimately finds self-empowerment and a new understanding of home and identity through higher education. The book includes descriptions of domestic abuse and emotional manipulation.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Educated by Tara Westover receives substantial praise for its compelling narrative and insightful exploration of self-discovery and resilience. Critics commend its vivid prose and emotional depth. However, some note a seemingly embellished recounting of events and a repetitive structure. Despite minor criticisms, it stands out as an inspiring memoir.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Educated?

Readers who appreciate memoirs of resilience and self-discovery will enjoy Educated by Tara Westover. Fans of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and Wild by Cheryl Strayed will find this compelling tale of escaping an isolated, survivalist upbringing for education deeply inspiring.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Trust & Doubt

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Relationships: Fathers

Topics

Education

Poverty