Ep #323: Capacity Work

In 'Educated,' Tara Westover recounts her journey from a childhood in rural Idaho, where she was raised by survivalist Mormon parents who opposed public education and medical care, to becoming a scholar at Harvard and Cambridge University. The book details her struggles with physical and verbal abuse, her self-education, and her eventual admission to Brigham Young University. Westover's story is a powerful exploration of resilience, the importance of education, and the complexities of family relationships. She navigates the tension between her desire for knowledge and her loyalty to her family, ultimately finding a way to reconcile her past and present selves.

In 'A Long Way Gone', Ishmael Beah recounts his journey from being a young boy fleeing rebels at age twelve to becoming a child soldier at thirteen. The memoir details his experiences with violence and drugs, and his eventual rescue and rehabilitation by UNICEF. It is a powerful story of survival and redemption.

The book "Stolen Girls" delves into the harrowing experiences of the Nigerian schoolgirls abducted by Boko Haram. It provides a detailed account of the kidnapping, the girls' captivity, and their subsequent escape or rescue. The narrative highlights the resilience and strength of the girls in the face of unimaginable trauma. It also sheds light on the challenges faced by victims of abduction and the long-term effects of trauma. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting children and fighting against human rights abuses.

In 'I Am Malala', Malala Yousafzai recounts her life in Swat Valley, her family's activism for education, and her courageous stand against the Taliban's efforts to deny girls the right to education. The book chronicles her journey from being a young blogger to becoming an international symbol of resilience and advocacy for education rights.