By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Tara Westover's memoir, "Educated," is a harrowing and unflinchingly honest account of her journey from a reclusive, survivalist upbringing in rural Idaho to the hallowed halls of Cambridge University. Raised by fundamentalist Mormon parents who eschewed formal education and modern medicine, Westover's early life was marked by physical labor in her father's junkyard and a dearth of academic instruction. Her father's apocalyptic worldview and her mother's acquiescence created an environment where ignorance was not just a byproduct but a deliberate choice.

The narrative is punctuated by disturbing episodes of physical and emotional abuse, particularly at the hands of her older brother, Shawn. These incidents are recounted with a stark clarity that is both unsettling and necessary, shedding light on the insidious nature of familial violence and the complicity that often accompanies it. Westover's ability to convey the complexity of these relationships—balancing love, loyalty, and betrayal—is a testament to her literary prowess.

Westover's self-directed pursuit of education is nothing short of miraculous. Teaching herself enough mathematics and grammar to gain admission to Brigham Young University at the age of 16, she embarks on an academic odyssey that challenges her preconceived notions and exposes her to a world previously unimaginable. Her initial ignorance of historical events, such as the Holocaust, underscores the profound gaps in her early education and the transformative power of knowledge. This journey is not without its tribulations; the cultural and intellectual chasm between her upbringing and the academic environment leads to moments of profound self-doubt and alienation.

Critics have lauded "Educated" for its raw honesty and compelling narrative. The Guardian describes it as a "brutal, one-of-a-kind memoir" that delves into the author's struggle to reconcile her desire for learning with her family's rigid beliefs. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/books/2018/feb/14/educated-tara-westover-mormon-family-review?utm_source=openai)) Common Sense Media highlights the memoir's strong message about courage and perseverance, noting that while the story is often dark, it is also moving and troubling. ([commonsensemedia.org](https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/educated-a-memoir?utm_source=openai))

However, some readers have expressed reservations about the memoir's focus. A review on Goodreads notes that the book delves deeply into family dynamics and the author's struggle to let go, suggesting that the narrative may feel like an ongoing internal battle rather than a resolved journey. ([goodreads.com](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56637921-educated?utm_source=openai))

Despite these critiques, "Educated" has garnered significant acclaim, spending over two years on The New York Times bestseller list and being translated into 45 languages. It was named one of The New York Times' 10 Best Books of 2018 and received the Goodreads Choice Award for Autobiography. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Educated_%28memoir%29?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, "Educated" is a profoundly moving memoir that offers a stark exploration of the clash between familial loyalty and personal growth. Westover's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of education. While the narrative's intensity may be challenging for some readers, it is an essential read for those seeking to understand the complexities of breaking free from oppressive environments.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 7/3/2025