Book Review: “Educated” by Tara Westover
Tara Westover’s memoir, Educated, has resonated with readers for its gripping narrative of a young woman’s journey from an isolated, survivalist childhood in rural Idaho to earning a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge. It’s a story of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of education. However, after reading it as a book club, our group landed somewhere in the middle of the spectrum, giving the book an average rating of 6 out of 10.
The memoir begins with a stark portrayal of Westover’s childhood, where her family’s strict religious beliefs and extreme mistrust of authority kept her isolated from the outside world. Her father’s control over the family’s lives, her mother’s role as a midwife and healer, and her siblings’ complex dynamics make for an absorbing, if at times unsettling, story. Westover’s recounting of her eventual escape from this environment to seek education, first through self-study and then in formal institutions, is undeniably inspiring.
Strengths:
One of the strongest aspects of Educated is Westover’s raw honesty in describing the trauma of growing up in such an extreme environment. The details of her emotional and psychological struggles as she navigates the tension between loyalty to her family and her desire for a different life are compelling. The way she describes her initial encounters with formal education, where she has to play catch-up with more conventional students, is both relatable and poignant.
Moreover, the writing itself is fluid and often beautifully evocative. Westover’s ability to convey complex emotions and situations with clarity makes her story accessible, even when the subject matter is difficult. The overarching theme of self-discovery through education is moving and thought-provoking, and many of us found it inspiring in its own right.
Weaknesses:
Several members of our book club noted that while the book’s central premise was engaging, the narrative felt repetitive at times. The constant tension between Tara and her family became somewhat predictable, and by the middle of the book, some readers found themselves yearning for a deeper exploration of her emotional and intellectual growth.
Additionally, while Westover’s academic journey is impressive, the book occasionally focuses so heavily on her battles with her family that it can feel like the academic achievements take a backseat. For some members, this led to a sense of imbalance, as the focus on family drama overshadowed the broader themes of education and personal growth. A few also felt that certain aspects of Westover’s family dynamics were not fully explored, leaving questions about her siblings and the psychological impact of her upbringing that went unanswered.
Conclusion:
Overall, Educated is a powerful story of overcoming adversity, but for our book club, it didn’t quite reach the level of transformative or deeply thought-provoking memoir that we had hoped for. It’s certainly worth reading for its personal insights into education, family, and self-determination, but some of us felt it lacked the narrative drive or emotional depth that would have made it a standout for a broader audience. With its intriguing premise and inspiring moments, Educated is a good read, but not one that left every member feeling deeply impacted. For those who enjoy memoirs about overcoming trauma and seeking personal growth, Educated is worth picking up, but it might not resonate equally with everyone.
Rating: 6/10 (Please note, this is the average rating. Some members rated higher, some lower. It resonated differently with everyone. Lowest was 5,5; highest – 8).
