Educated by Tara Westover: 6 Key Questions to Explore after Reading

Yes, the book “Educated” by Tara Westover is a memoir and is based on the author’s own life experiences. It tells the story of her upbringing in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho and her journey towards self-education and personal growth, eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University.

Educated is a memoir written by Tara Westover, a woman who grew up in rural Idaho in a strict and abusive household. The book follows her journey of self-discovery and education, as she breaks free from her isolated and controlling family to pursue higher education. Despite facing numerous obstacles along the way, including her father’s resistance, Westover manages to gain admission to Brigham Young University and eventually earns a doctorate from Cambridge University. The memoir explores themes of family, identity, and the power of education in transforming one’s life.

In the book “Educated” by Tara Westover, the author shares her personal experiences of growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho, while also emphasizing her journey towards education and self-discovery. Tara Westover does not specifically talk about herself as the author within the book; she primarily focuses on her personal development, her pursuit of education, and the challenges she faced along the way.

Yes, “Educated” by Tara Westover is definitely worth the read. It is a captivating memoir that tells the story of Westover’s journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho to pursuing an education and ultimately earning a PhD from Cambridge University. The book explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of education. Westover’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a highly recommended book for those interested in memoirs and personal growth.

Educated by Tara Westover has received widespread critical acclaim since its publication in 2018. The memoir tells the compelling and harrowing story of Westover’s journey from a strict and abusive upbringing in rural Idaho, where formal education was denied to her, to eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University.

Reviewers have praised Westover’s writing style, noting her ability to vividly describe her experiences and the emotional impact of her story. The memoir is described as a powerful and gripping narrative that explores themes of self-discovery, family, education, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Critics have also lauded Westover’s courage in confronting the painful and traumatic events of her past with honesty and vulnerability. The book delves into the difficulties of breaking away from a toxic family environment and the toll it takes on an individual’s sense of identity.

Moreover, Educated has been commended for raising broader questions about the importance of education, the power dynamics within families, and the grip of religious fundamentalism. Westover’s exploration of the power of knowledge and the transformative potential of education resonates with readers worldwide.

Overall, the reviews of Educated have been overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a remarkable and deeply impactful memoir that is both disturbing and inspiring. It has been praised for its honesty, insight, and the way it illuminates the complexities of family, education, and personal growth.

Book Recommendation: For Fans of “Educated” by Tara Westover

1. “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah:

In this raw and thought-provoking memoir, comedian Trevor Noah takes readers on a journey through his remarkable life growing up in South Africa during apartheid. Similar to “Educated,” Noah’s book explores themes of resilience, overcoming adversity, and the power of education. With humor and candidness, Noah reflects on his experiences as a mixed-race child, navigating identity, and the importance of education in shaping his worldview. This powerful memoir is bound to captivate fans of “Educated” with its poignant storytelling and introspection.

2. “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls:

For those who enjoyed the gripping family dynamics and coming-of-age aspect of “Educated,” “The Glass Castle” offers a captivatingly similar tale. Jeannette Walls shares her unconventional upbringing in a poverty-stricken and nomadic family. Through her unflinching and honest narrative, Walls delves into issues of parental neglect, resilience, and the power of self-reliance. This memoir, like “Educated,” leaves readers reflecting on the complexities of familial bonds and the lasting impact of education.

3. “Educating Alice: Adventures of a Curious Woman” by Alice Steinbach:

Alice Steinbach’s memoir takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and exploration as she embarks on a year-long sabbatical to explore different cultures and enrich her understanding of the world. With echoes of Tara Westover’s transformative journey through education, Steinbach’s narrative focuses on personal growth, finding oneself, and the transformative power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. “Educating Alice” will appeal to lovers of “Educated” who appreciate stories of self-discovery and the pursuit of knowledge.

4. “Lab Girl” by Hope Jahren:

Fans of Tara Westover’s fascination with science, self-discovery, and resilience will find “Lab Girl” by Hope Jahren captivating. Jahren, a renowned scientist, chronicles her life in academia, exploring the natural world, and the challenges she faced as a woman in the male-dominated field of science. This memoir not only celebrates scientific curiosity but also delves into personal struggles, mental health, and the deep connections we build with the natural world. “Lab Girl” is a beautiful exploration of the power of passion and the pursuit of knowledge.

5. “Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China” by Jung Chang:

For readers intrigued by the exploration of culture and family dynamics in “Educated,” “Wild Swans” is a must-read. This multi-generational memoir takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of three generations of Chinese women, offering a vivid representation of China’s tumultuous cultural and political history. With themes of resilience, adaptability, and the impact of education, Chang’s powerful storytelling echoes the transformation and self-discovery experienced by Tara Westover in “Educated.”

These recommended books will resonate with fans of “Educated” by Tara Westover, offering similar themes of resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of education. Through these memoirs, readers can explore a diverse range of experiences and reflect on the importance of education in shaping one’s worldview.