Su-ann Hor

Tara Westover's memoir, Educated, is a gripping and almost unbelievable tale that showcases the extent to which humans can be influenced by extreme beliefs. The book delves into her life growing up in a strict, survivalist Mormon family in rural Idaho, where medical intervention was shunned in favour of self-herbal healing, even in the face of severe accidents that often seemed fatal. Miraculously, the family members survived these accidents, further solidifying the parents' faith in their unorthodox methods. Tara's journey from this isolated upbringing to earning a PhD from Cambridge University is nothing short of extraordinary. Without a formal high school education, her self-taught perseverance and innate intelligence allowed her to overcome monumental odds. This transformation seems almost too remarkable to be true, yet it stands as a testament to human resilience and the power of education. Notably, her brothers also achieved high levels of education without formal schooling, suggesting a significant inherent aptitude within the family. One of the most striking aspects of Educated is how it highlights the ease with which people can be made to doubt themselves. Despite journaling her experiences, Tara was continually gaslighted by her parents, leading her to question her own reality. This manipulation underscores the impact that accusations and words from others can have on an individual's sense of truth and self-worth. Educated is a powerful reminder of the importance of exposure to diverse perspectives and the value of questioning the world around us. Tara's story emphasises that knowledge is empowering and that remaining open-minded and continuously learning are crucial to personal growth. Her journey illustrates how being confined to a singular belief system can make everything else seem like falsehoods. This memoir is not just a story of personal triumph but also a call to never stop seeking knowledge and understanding. Tara Westover's narrative encourages us to keep an open mind, to trust in our own perceptions, and to recognise that many people around the world face far more challenging circumstances. Educated is an eye-opening book that inspires readers to appreciate their opportunities and strive for continual self-improvement.