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Heartland

320 pages, 2019

Takeaways
Description

Sarah Smarsh grew up in Kansas, the fifth-generation descendant of a wheat-farming family in a place that has long been known for its poverty. While her family worked hard and pushed themselves to achieve more than most, the struggles of their generation were doubled by those of their parents and grandparents, who had little hope of escaping their situation. 

In this memoir, Smarsh tells the story of her own life as well as those of the people she loves, trying to understand what made them different from others and how their mistakes have carried forward into hers. 

Though she has come to look at the class divide as it affects her own life, Smarsh also explores it as lived experience, metaphor, and a level of consciousness. She wants readers to think more carefully about what class really means and how it can affect us all. Sarah Smarsh was born a fifth-generation Kansas wheat farmer on her paternal side and the product of generations of teen mothers on her maternal side.

The Cycle of Poverty

Heartland by Sarah Smarsh explores the harsh reality of generational poverty. She shows how it's not just about lack of money, but also about lack of opportunities and resources. It's a cycle that's hard to break, but understanding it is the first step.

The American Dream

Smarsh challenges the traditional concept of the 'American Dream'. She suggests that it's not always attainable for everyone, especially those born into poverty. This book will make you rethink what success really means.

The Impact of Class and Gender

In Heartland, you'll see how class and gender can shape a person's life. Smarsh shares her own experiences growing up as a poor, white woman in rural Kansas, highlighting the struggles and prejudices she faced.

The Power of Resilience

Despite the hardships, Sarah Smarsh's story is one of resilience. She shows that even in the face of adversity, it's possible to rise above and create a better life for yourself. It's a powerful message that will inspire you to never give up.

The Importance of Education

One key takeaway from Heartland is the importance of education. Smarsh emphasizes how education was her ticket out of poverty. It's a reminder that knowledge and learning can open doors and change lives.

Quotes 5

Heartland is a thoughtful exploration of the realities of the American dream through the lens of a family's experiences in rural Kansas.

Barack ObamaBarack Obama - 44th U.S. President

Heartland is a powerful, honest story that provides a window into the lives of those struggling in rural America.

Elizabeth WarrenElizabeth Warren - U.S. Senator

Heartland is a compelling narrative that sheds light on the often overlooked stories of rural America.

Oprah WinfreyOprah Winfrey - Media Mogul

Heartland is a poignant examination of the struggles and triumphs of the working class in America's heartland.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-Founder

Heartland is a deeply moving memoir that offers a fresh perspective on the challenges facing rural America.

J.D. VanceJ.D. Vance - Author, Venture Capitalist
Barack ObamaElizabeth WarrenOprah WinfreyBill GatesJ.D. Vance

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