I want to dedicate this post entirely to praise a book that reminded me this week, why people write books and why we read them.
Educated by Tara Westover will blow your mind. It is not only beautifully written, but it is also told in a tone and in a rhythm so particular that it makes you feel somehow part of the story. This book affected me; it is one of those stories that makes you want to sleep, take a breather, have a cup of tea, all at the same time.
Thank God for books like this. Books like Educated are little physical certitudes that the need for storytelling and story sharing is and will be eternal.
In her memoir, Tara Westover recounts her journey growing up in rural Idaho with parents that genuinely believed that the End of Days was coming. Her upbringing was traumatic and filled with brutal experiences, which she shares in the book, however, this story is more about self-preservation and the astonishing power of education.
If you like books that cause emotional and physical reactions, if you require inspiration, if you want to feel in awe of women’s conviction, this should be your next book!
May your weekend be filled with inspiration,
M.
Em and the Shelf 