52 pages • 1 hour read
Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century
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Book Brief
288
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century, Jessica Bruder chronicles the lives of older Americans living in RVs, vans, and cars after losing jobs, savings, or retirement funds post-2008 financial crisis. With Linda May as a central figure, Bruder explores economic shifts, jobless recovery, and the challenges these nomads face, including grueling seasonal work, legal hurdles, and health concerns.
Informative
Contemplative
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
59,259 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jessica Bruder's Nomadland receives acclaim for its insightful and empathetic portrayal of modern-day nomads in America. Reviewers praise Bruder's in-depth research and storytelling, highlighting the book's ability to humanize its subjects. However, some critics feel the narrative occasionally lacks depth in exploring systemic issues. Overall, it offers a compelling view of an alternative lifestyle.
Who Should Read Nomadland?
Readers who enjoy deep social exploration and impactful storytelling, similar to those captivated by Evicted by Matthew Desmond or Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance, will find Nomadland by Jessica Bruder compelling. Ideal for fans of investigative journalism and those interested in contemporary issues and economic inequality.
59,259 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jessica Bruder
Jessica Bruder
The author and main narrator who explores the lives of transient workers in her book, immersing herself in the van dwelling community to provide an insider perspective.
Ghost Dancer
Ghost Dancer
An alias for a nomad known for founding a key online community for van dwellers, recognized as an influential figure within their lifestyle circle.
Silvianne Delmars
Silvianne Delmars
A quirky and cheerful woman in her sixties who works at CamperForce and bonds with other nomads, committing to life on the road.
Patti DiPino
Patti DiPino
A CamperForce employee whose death from cancer influences Bruder to delve deeper into the theme of mortality in the van dwelling community.
LaVonne Ellis
LaVonne Ellis
A former broadcast and radio journalist who initially doubts Bruder's intentions but becomes an integral member of Linda's support network in their nomadic lifestyle.
Jen Derge & Ash Haag
Jen Derge & Ash Haag
A millennial couple burdened with student debt, opting for van dwelling as a lifestyle to escape traditional economic pressures and pursue seasonal work instead.
Iris Goldenberg
Iris Goldenberg
A CamperForce employee who lives in her van with pet birds, embodying a serene approach to life on the road.
George Lehrer
George Lehrer
A prominent blogger who is instrumental in sharing knowledge and encouraging others to embrace the van dwelling lifestyle.
Linda May
Linda May
A central figure in the book, Linda is an optimistic nomad in her sixties who works hard despite financial challenges, dreaming of a sustainable lifestyle in her self-built Earthship.
Vincent Mosemann
Vincent Mosemann
A young trans male nomad mentored by seasoned van dwellers, aiming to gain independence through the van dwelling lifestyle.
Kat & Mike Valentino
Kat & Mike Valentino
A couple with a young child, living in a van while managing homeschooling responsibilities, building a community with other nomadic families.
Bob Wells
Bob Wells
The influential creator of a widely-read blog offering guidance on van living, who also organizes notable van dweller gatherings and promotes a minimalist lifestyle.
Don Wheeler
Don Wheeler
A CamperForce employee who gained financial stability after losing his home, discreetly engaging with Bruder due to his employment restrictions.
Charlene Swankie / Swankie Wheels
Charlene Swankie / Swankie Wheels
A seasoned nomad and mentor who generously shares her knowledge with Bruder and her fellow nomads, helping them navigate van life effectively.
288
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Adult
18+ years
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