Tightrope

In the opening of Chapter 13, the authors ask how it is possible that some of Kristof’s classmates in Yamhill thrived, while others struggled. The answer is not solely a matter of money; as the authors note, some of those who did well grew up in families that were poor, but where parents were also well-embedded in the community and placed a high value in education. School clubs and sports also provided structure and support for children, as did the church. Some who lacked these protective structures also survived, including Dale Branden, a classmate of Kristof who, like the Knapps, had an abusive, alcoholic father and parents with little formal education. After high school, Branden joined the military, and from there he went on to a secure, white-collar job and a stable marriage. His experience reflects that of many other working-class kids for whom the military creates opportunities and lifelines out of poverty. However, since the military is not an option for everyone, such as those who don’t complete high school, the authors suggest a similar kind of structure could be provided through national service programs designed to teach at-risk youth skills and discipline, such as the National Guard Youth Challenge or City Year.