Book: Educated
Author: Tara Westover
Genre: Memoir / Non-Fiction
There are some books that you enjoy while you’re reading them, and then there are books that make you think about them long after you’ve finished. Educated by Tara Westover definitely falls into the second category. I picked this one up because I fancied reading something a little different from my usual novels, and I’m so glad I did.
If you’re a fan of stories about complicated families, finding your own identity and overcoming difficult circumstances, this is one to add to your reading list.
A Childhood Unlike Any Other
Educated tells the true story of Tara Westover, who grew up in a strict, survivalist family in the mountains of Idaho. Her childhood was far removed from what most of us would consider normal. Her family didn’t trust the government, hospitals or the education system, and Tara never attended school in the traditional sense.
Instead, she spent much of her childhood helping her family with their work, including a dangerous scrap-metal business.
What makes the book so interesting is that Tara doesn’t begin by telling us everything that happened in a dramatic, attention-grabbing way. She takes us through her childhood and gradually shows us what life was like for her. Some of the experiences are genuinely shocking, especially when you realise how different her upbringing was from that of most children.
There were moments when I found myself thinking, “How on earth did she manage that?”
Discovering The Power Of Education
The turning point in Tara’s life comes when she begins to educate herself. With very little formal schooling, she studies for the ACT and eventually gets into Brigham Young University.
From there, her journey takes her to some incredible places, including Cambridge University and Harvard.
What I found particularly inspiring was that Tara didn’t suddenly become an academic overnight. She had to work incredibly hard to catch up with other students, learn things that many of us take for granted, and find her confidence in a world that was completely unfamiliar to her.
The book shows that education isn’t just about passing exams or getting a degree. It can completely change the way you see yourself and the world around you.
The Difficult Side Of Family
One of the strongest parts of Educated is the relationship Tara has with her family.
This isn’t a simple story about a girl leaving home and becoming successful. Tara loves her family, and there are moments of warmth and loyalty, but there are also experiences that are deeply upsetting.
As she learns more about the world, she starts to question some of the beliefs she grew up with. This creates tension, particularly when her new understanding of life clashes with her family’s expectations.
I think this is what makes the memoir so relatable, even though Tara’s childhood was so unusual. Most of us have experienced moments when we’ve had to work out who we are, what we believe and whether we want to follow the same path as the people around us.
What I Thought Of The Book
I found Educated incredibly moving. It’s not always an easy read, and there are some difficult scenes, but Tara’s writing makes you want to keep turning the pages.
What I liked most was that she doesn’t present herself as perfect. She makes mistakes, struggles with her decisions and sometimes feels torn between the life she came from and the life she’s building.
That honesty makes the story feel much more real.
I also loved the way the book explores the idea of freedom. Tara’s journey isn’t just about leaving home or going to university. It’s about learning to think for herself and understanding that she has the right to make her own choices.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. If you enjoy non-fiction that reads almost like a novel, Educated is a brilliant choice.
It’s especially worth reading if you’re interested in psychology, family relationships, education or true stories about people overcoming adversity.
I’d recommend it to older teenagers and adults, as some of the themes and experiences are quite upsetting. It’s not a light-hearted read, but it is a meaningful one.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
My final verdict: Five stars!
Educated is a powerful memoir about growing up, finding your voice and discovering that your past doesn’t have to determine your future. Tara Westover’s story is fascinating, heartbreaking and inspiring all at once.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you think, challenge your perspective and stay with you long after you’ve finished reading, this is definitely one to pick up.
Featured image: AI generated.
