Tara Westover’s “Educated” is a memoir that takes readers on an extraordinary journey from the rugged mountains of Idaho to the hallowed halls of Cambridge University. This book is a testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Tara Westover and her remarkable story.
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| Educated: From Mountain Girl to Cambridge Scholar |
The Plot: From the Mountains to the Ivory Tower
“Educated” chronicles Tara’s life, starting with her unconventional
upbringing in a strict, survivalist family. Her father, Gene, is a devout
Mormon with a deep distrust of the government and modern medicine. He believes
in radical self-sufficiency, which means no birth certificates, no school, and
no doctors. Tara’s mother, Faye,
is an unlicensed midwife and herbal healer who supports Gene’s beliefs.
Growing up, Tara and her siblings work in their father’s
junkyard, facing constant danger and injury. Despite the harsh conditions, Tara
dreams of a different life. Her brother Tyler’s decision to go to college plants
a seed of hope in her. At seventeen, Tara decides to educate herself, teaching
herself enough to gain admission to Brigham
Young University. This decision sets her on a path that will
change her life forever.
Characters: A Family of Contrasts
Tara Westover is the heart and soul of this memoir. Her journey from an
isolated, uneducated girl to a Cambridge-educated scholar is nothing short of
inspiring. Her determination to break free from her family’s constraints and
pursue knowledge is a testament to her strength and resilience.
Gene Westover, Tara’s father, is a complex character. His paranoia and strict
beliefs create a challenging environment for his children. Yet, his love for
his family is evident, even if his methods are extreme.
Faye Westover, Tara’s mother, is torn between her loyalty to Gene and her
love for her children. Her journey from a midwife to a successful herbalist
business owner adds another layer to the family’s dynamic.
Shawn Westover, Tara’s older brother, is both a protector and a tormentor. His
abusive behavior towards Tara is a dark thread running through the memoir,
highlighting the complexities of familial relationships.
Themes: Education, Identity, and Freedom
Education is the central theme of the memoir. Tara’s pursuit of
knowledge is a rebellion against her upbringing and a quest for self-discovery.
Her journey shows that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also
about gaining the power to shape one’s destiny.
Identity is another key theme. Tara’s struggle to reconcile her
past with her present is a poignant exploration of how our backgrounds shape
us. Her journey is a testament to the idea that we can redefine ourselves, no
matter where we come from.
Freedom is a recurring motif. Tara’s story is about breaking free
from the constraints of her upbringing and finding her own path. Her journey is
a powerful reminder that true freedom comes from within.
Writing Style: Raw and Poetic
Westover’s writing is raw and poetic. She paints
vivid pictures of her childhood in the mountains, capturing the beauty and
brutality of her upbringing. Her prose is honest and unflinching, making
the reader feel every moment of her journey. The memoir is structured in a way
that keeps the reader engaged, with each chapter revealing new layers of Tara’s
story.
The Journey: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Reading “Educated” is
like riding an emotional rollercoaster. From the harrowing descriptions of
Tara’s childhood injuries to the triumphant moments of her academic
achievements, the memoir is filled with highs and lows. Westover’s ability to
convey the emotional complexity of her experiences is what makes this book so
compelling.
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The Journey: A Rollercoaster of Emotions |
Critique: A Few Rough Edges
While “Educated” is
a powerful memoir, it’s not without its flaws. Some readers might find the
pacing slow in parts, particularly in the detailed descriptions of Tara’s
childhood. Additionally, the memoir’s focus on Tara’s perspective means that
some family members’ motivations and actions remain somewhat opaque. However,
these are minor quibbles in an otherwise outstanding narrative.
Conclusion: A Must-Read Memoir
In conclusion, “Educated” by
Tara Westover is a must-read memoir that offers a profound exploration of the
power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. Westover’s journey
from isolation to enlightenment is a story that will stay with readers long
after they turn the last page. Whether you’re a fan of memoirs, interested in
stories of personal transformation, or simply looking for a compelling
read, “Educated” is
a book that should be on your reading list.
So, grab a copy of “Educated”,
find a cozy spot, and prepare to be inspired by Tara Westover’s incredible
journey. You won’t be disappointed.