Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom.  Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, she prepared for the end of the world by stockpiling home-canned peaches and sleeping with her “head for the hills” bag.  In the summer, she stewed herbs for her mother, a midwife and healer and in the winter, she salvaged metal in her father’s junkyard.

The Book Club selection for October, “Educated” by Tara Westover, is not a fiction book but a true account of Tara’s life.  One might think the story took place in the early years of our country but Tara was born in 1986.  Tara’s father distrusted the medical establishment.  Any illness or injury was treated at home with herbs. The family was very isolated from mainstream society, so no one noticed the children were not in school. 

When Tara’s brother figured out a way to get himself into college, he came back with news of the world beyond their mountain home.  Tara taught herself enough to get admitted to Brigham Young University and eventually went on to study at Harvard and Cambridge.  

“Educated” is an account of family loyalty and a quest for knowledge and education.  It offers a look into a different lifestyle.   Book Club members enjoyed the book and would recommend it as a great read. 

Call the LeRoy Public Library (507.324.5641) and ask Rhonda to reserve your copy today.