Educated by Tara Westover

I was riveted and sometimes torn to pieces reading Educated. Westover’s account of her childhood in remote Idaho is captivating. If you read only a few books a year, this should make the list. Tara’s parents are fundamentalist Mormons, prepping for the end of the world. They live with their seven children isolated from civilization and society.  Traditional medicine is strictly forbidden, as well as the public-school system. This book was hard to put down because her experiences were so extreme. It seemed impossible that a young girl could grow into a functional adult after surviving such an odd upbringing. At times I had to take breaks, the account of abuse by one family member was so disturbing. However, I had to know how it ended. I particularly appreciated how she portrayed herself in a brutally honest light.  She recognized her own skewed thinking and habits, as well as her family. Her journey of healing and establishing a healthy mindset is the most inspiring story I have read all year.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here: Educated: A Memoir