49 pages • 1 hour read
Tightrope
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Book Brief
320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s-2010s
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Tightrope: Americans Reaching For Hope by Sheryl WuDunn and Nicholas D. Kristof chronicles the impact of American policies on poverty through the lens of individuals from Yamhill, Oregon, intertwined with broader societal issues. It highlights the decline in life expectancy, economic instability, addiction, and the weakening job market, while offering potential solutions for a more humane society. The book includes sensitive topics such as domestic violence and substance use disorder.
Informative
Challenging
Emotional
Unnerving
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
10,036 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Sheryl WuDunn and Nicholas D. Kristof’s Tightrope compellingly examines the struggles of working-class Americans through personal narratives, blending investigative journalism with heartfelt storytelling. Lauded for its empathy and depth, it can occasionally feel heavy-handed and anecdotal. Nonetheless, it effectively highlights systemic issues and the resilience of the human spirit.
Who Should Read Tightrope?
Readers who would enjoy Tightrope by Sheryl WuDunn and Nicholas D. Kristof are those interested in social justice, economic inequality, and heartfelt human narratives. Similar in readership to Evicted by Matthew Desmond and Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance, this book appeals to readers who seek in-depth understanding of American societal challenges.
10,036 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s-2010s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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