30 pages • 1 hour read
Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard
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Book Brief
334
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York City • 1980s-1990s
2010
Adult
15-18 years
Super Short Summary
Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard by Liz Murray tells the story of Liz, a young girl who becomes homeless at sixteen and faces numerous challenges due to her parents' addiction and neglect. Despite living on the streets and enduring significant personal hardships, Liz pursues her education, earning a scholarship, and ultimately gaining acceptance to Harvard University. Sensitive topics in the book include substance abuse, homelessness, and terminal illness.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
24,415 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Breaking Night by Liz Murray receives praise for its inspiring narrative of overcoming homelessness and adversity to attend Harvard. Critics commend Murray's raw and honest writing but note that the memoir occasionally dips into overly sentimental territory. Overall, it’s a powerful story of resilience that resonates deeply with readers.
Who Should Read Breaking Night?
Readers who are inspired by stories of resilience and overcoming adversity would enjoy Liz Murray’s Breaking Night. Fans of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls or Educated by Tara Westover will find a similar gripping, poignant narrative. This memoir is ideal for those interested in personal transformation and the triumph of the human spirit.
24,415 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lisa
Lisa
Liz’s older sister by two years, Lisa tries to protect Liz during their troubled childhood and later takes on family responsibilities.
Jeanie (Ma)
Jeanie (Ma)
Liz and Lisa's mother who struggles with drug addiction but desires a better life for her daughters.
Peter (Daddy)
Peter (Daddy)
Liz’s father who shares a troubled past and substance addiction, affecting his ability to be fully present for Liz during her youth.
Sam
Sam
A close friend of Liz’s whose situation prompts Liz to leave home and face homelessness.
Carlos
Carlos
Liz’s first romantic partner who initially supports her but later becomes involved in drugs, leading to a change in their relationship.
334
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
New York City • 1980s-1990s
2010
Adult
15-18 years
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