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Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover My rating: 5 of 5 stars I've always had a particular sympathy for people that overcome barriers to do something significant in life, and this story is a great one. Tara, raised in an oppressive environment controlled by a semi-delusional father, rose beyond her confined world of fundamentalism to reach a level of academic success that is typically unheard of for someone of her background. The first half of the book details her home and how she was raised, and while painful, we know she will eventually grow and evolve. The second half was more touching and joyful to read than the first when Tara starts to understand the larger outside world, supported by others who equally achieved in ways that are exceptional, as well as by faculty that saw something special in her. It is simply a great story of personal growth, told simply, clearly, and with compassion. View all my reviews