Summary & Review: J.D. Vance's Hillbilly Elegy

by BreakfastBookClub

Fierce loyalty, an undying love for family, an innate sense of self-preservation combined with a relentless, almost pathological desire for self-destruction are, according to author JD Vance, the tenets of Hillbilly code. In his book Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis, Vance introduces the audience to his world and inhabitants: the deeply poverty-stricken, tough-as nails but uncompromisingly loving Hillbillies of Appalachia.
As a product of this culture, Vance is also a part of the minority of those who were able to leave, get out, and find a better life. This gives him a unique perspective into his community. This narrative tells not only his story, but also the story of his people. Vance poses the question, often implicitly, of why Hillbilly culture so damaged and how can it be fixed? Are the problems that Hillbillies face a result of their own actions, not external factors? Is taking personal responsibility the antidote for overcoming the obstacles that plaque this community?

This companion reader includes:
* Main Themes
* Detailed Summary
* Honest Review & Commentary

55 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2016

Reviews

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting insight

Summary of, Hillbilly Elegy offer a great summary and insight into a man now nominated Vice President as Trump's running mate. Highly recommended reading.

[Dawn Rooney · Rating 1 out of 5]

I mistakenly added this book to my list to read. I was actually looking for the actual book. I don't want or care what Breakfast Book Club's opinion of a book is, I found their review rather bias. I will be more observant on the title and author going forward.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had lots of reasons for appreciating this book and think it's well worth reading, even with its limitations. The author may not be an experienced social scientist, but he does have a story worth telling.