Introduction

Show notes | PDF & Infographic | Free audiobook | Imagine being brought up in isolation from the outside world. Your father is paranoid and your mother uses only herbal medicine to heal even the most horrific injuries. This was the childhood experience of Tara Westover, the author of Educated.

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IN THIS EPISODE: In her memoir 'Educated', Tara Westover shares her inspiring journey from a traumatic and isolated upbringing in a survivalist Mormon family to becoming a highly educated and influential author, essayist, and historian.

TOPICS: Overcoming adversity, survivalism, Unconventional Upbringing, Mormonism, family dynamics, Academic Achievement, isolation, resilience, Family Abuse, memoir writing, Childhood Trauma, self-discovery, personal growth, education, memoir

KEY FIGURES: Amazon, University of Cambridge, Educated, Tara Westover, Time, StoryShots, Storyshots app, Brigham Young University

SUMMARY:

Tara Westover's memoir 'Educated' shares her unusual childhood experiences growing up in a survivalist Mormon family in Idaho. From a young age, her father instilled paranoia about the government and extreme religious beliefs, leading the family to live in isolation, homeschooled, and without access to proper medical care.

As Tara grew older, she began to seek knowledge and independence through work and education, which put her at odds with her family's beliefs. Despite facing immense challenges and abuse, she persevered and eventually earned a scholarship to attend Brigham Young University, opening up a new world beyond her sheltered upbringing.

Tara's journey of self-discovery and pursuit of knowledge allowed her to overcome her traumatic past and excel academically, earning a Master's degree from the University of Cambridge and becoming a Gates Cambridge Scholar. Her memoir reflects her resilience and the transformative power of education.

KEY QUOTES:

• "The skill I was learning was a crucial one, the patience to read things I could not yet understand." - Tara Westover

• "Tara wrestled with the difficulty of her classes she had chosen, particularly challenging english, american history, music, religion, and western civilization. She was also not used to formal education." - StoryShots

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Tara Westover's memoir 'Educated' offers an inspiring account of overcoming adversity and pursuing knowledge against all odds.

• Her family's survivalist beliefs and isolation from society shaped her traumatic childhood and lack of formal education.

• Despite facing abuse, extreme religious views, and lack of medical care, Tara persevered and sought independence through work and education.

• Her transition to formal education at Brigham Young University was a significant challenge, but she eventually excelled academically.

• Tara's journey culminated in her earning a Master's degree from the University of Cambridge and becoming a celebrated author and scholar...

(00:00) Introduction to StoryShots

(00:20) Introduction to 'Educated' by Tara Westover

(02:00) Tara's Unusual Childhood

(04:05) Lack of Education at Home

(05:46) Lack of Medical Attention and Care

(07:31) Tara's Journey to Independence

(08:58) Realizing the Need to Leave Home

(09:58) Experiencing Culture Shock at College

(12:00) Adapting to Life Outside Her Father's Worldview

(12:16) Conclusion and Next Steps

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