Educated

Tara Westover

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Book Synopsis

"Educated" by Tara Westover is a gripping memoir that chronicles the author's extraordinary journey from a strict and isolated childhood in rural Idaho to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.

Raised by survivalist parents who shunned mainstream society and education, Tara grows up without formal schooling and medical care. Enduring physical and emotional abuses within her family, she eventually finds the strength to break free and pursue her education.

Through sheer determination, Tara embarks on a self-taught path that eventually leads her to Brigham Young University. But fitting into a world she knows little about proves challenging. Yet, she thrives academically and begins to question her family's beliefs, causing tensions and fractures.

Encountering mentors who support her, Tara's thirst for knowledge becomes insatiable. She delves into subjects such as history, philosophy, and mathematics, through which she gains the confidence to confront her past and define her own identity.

As Tara's educational achievements become more profound, the rift between her and her family widens, leading her to face difficult choices. Struggling with the weight of her newfound independence, Tara must confront the sacrifices she has made for her education and find a way to reconcile her transformative journey with her complicated familial ties.

"Educated" is a deeply moving and inspiring memoir that explores the power of education and self-discovery. It delves into themes of resilience, forgiveness, and transformation, highlighting the importance of breaking free from the limitations imposed by others in order to shape one's own destiny. Tara Westover's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of education.

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