What a read! Quite eye-opening into the livelihood of one Morman family in rural Idaho. However, I’m weary of whether the truth was stretched during the writing of this memoir. On one hand, it’s quite believable that Tara’s family would live in fear of Government influence, wanting to be 100% self sufficient, totally isolated from a community, and prepare for The End of the World by gathering resources and preparing for survival. I know those are beliefs of some. But for her parents to go so far as to not allow Tara and her siblings to gain any sort of formal education or seek medical attention by professionals (even during serious car accidents and personal injuries!), that’s what makes me think critically about Tara’s gripping story. Plus, Tara even admits that some of her quotes from communication with family and some of her memories of certain incidents are written as interpretation and a recount of events that may not be 100% correct. So that just leaves extra room to wonder what the “real” truth is. I’m proud of Tara for seeking an education and discovering her own truths about society. I’m sad for her about it’s cost in her life and what she had to sacrifice for it though.

Regardless, I enjoyed the book. It’s very well written - lots of detail and literary language. It’s certainly worthy of the buzz it’s getting this year as a memoir of 2018 to read. And Tara does state in the afterward that she had a fact checker who was detailed and critical, as well as the support of two of her siblings who shared memories and information with her regarding their upbringing.
If you enjoy non-fiction, you’re interested in hearing about one’s life struggles and the hurdles often overcome to get to where one is at present, then check out this book. I’d also compare it to The Glass Castle if you’re looking for a readalike.