132 pages • 4 hours read
George PackerA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
448
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2013
Adult
18+ years
The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America by George Packer examines the decline of American institutions and social cohesion from 1978 to 2012 through the lives of three main subjects: Dean Price, Jeff Connaughton, and Tammy Thomas, as well as notable figures like Newt Gingrich, Oprah Winfrey, and Jay-Z. The narrative explores the socioeconomic changes and struggles faced by Americans in Silicon Valley, Tampa, and Wall Street. Considerations of job loss, economic instability, and systemic inequities are vividly portrayed.
Informative
Contemplative
Melancholic
Gritty
Challenging
14,557 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
George Packer's The Unwinding is widely praised for its compelling narrative and insightful exploration of America's socio-economic unraveling. Critics commend its effective storytelling and vivid character studies. However, some note its episodic structure can feel disjointed. Overall, it's considered a poignant, thought-provoking examination of contemporary American life.
Readers who enjoy The Unwinding by George Packer are typically interested in American socio-economic issues and political history. They may also appreciate works like Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance or Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol, as these books provide a similar critique of societal changes and their impacts.
14,557 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
448
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.