A review by kskristy
Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth by Sarah Smarsh

challenging informative reflective medium-paced

5.0

As someone who shares many similarities with the author’s upbringing, but little of her adult perspectives, this book challenged me. I enjoyed the familial anecdotes and the rich descriptions of the Kansas childhood that stirred in me waves of nostalgia and brought a knowing smile to my face more than a time or two. The author deftly interwove her lived experiences with an examination of class, poverty and policy in America. I don’t wholly agree with her views of on the role of government and the American dream, but I appreciate her research, reporting, her voice, and her story. It made me think—and remember—in the best way, and, for that, I give this book a 5-star rating.