Stewart Butterfield: "Audio version of Hillbilly Elegy, read by author JD Vance, was five stars. Human, perceptive, loving, well-told."
One of 10 biographies Jason Calacanis recommends reading.
Max Levchin shared 'Hillbilly Elegy' on his LinkedIn page.
Bill Gates: "Hillbilly Elegy gave me new insights into poverty in America."
"Hillbilly Elegy" by J.D. Vance is a poignant and eye-opening memoir that explores the author's personal journey and his family's struggles within the Appalachian region of America.
Vance begins by recounting his turbulent upbringing in a working-class family marked by poverty, addiction, and a sense of hopelessness. He reflects on the unique culture and values of his community, shedding light on the deep-seated issues of social and economic decline.
As he grows older, Vance finds himself caught between his roots and his aspirations, grappling with the pull of his chaotic upbringing while striving to create a better life for himself. He enlists in the Marine Corps as a way to escape the cycle of despair, providing him with structure and discipline that reshape his perspective on life.
Throughout the memoir, Vance confronts the complex dynamics of his family, delving into the effects of generational poverty, addiction, and the breakdown of the American dream. He examines the role of community, religion, and education in shaping his trajectory, as well as the limitations and opportunities that exist within his cultural heritage.
With heartfelt candor and a keen sense of social analysis, Vance presents a captivating and intimate exploration of class, upward mobility, and the struggle for self-improvement. "Hillbilly Elegy" offers a compassionate and thought-provoking examination of the factors that contribute to the socioeconomic disparities and challenges faced by the working class in America.