Educated by Tara Westover

Last updated: Jul 9, 2023

Summary of Educated by Tara Westover

Educated is a memoir written by Tara Westover, detailing her journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho to eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University. The book explores themes of family, education, and the power of knowledge.

Tara was raised in a family that adhered to the teachings of her father, Gene, who believed in living off the grid and preparing for the end of the world. Her parents were devout Mormons, but their interpretation of the religion was extreme and isolated. Tara and her six siblings were denied access to formal education, medical care, and even basic safety precautions.

As a child, Tara worked in her father's junkyard and helped her mother with herbal remedies. She witnessed numerous accidents and injuries, but her parents refused to seek medical help, relying instead on faith healing. Tara's father also had a volatile temper and frequently subjected his children to physical and emotional abuse.

Despite these challenges, Tara was determined to educate herself. She taught herself to read and write, and eventually convinced her parents to let her attend a local school. However, her experiences there were difficult, as she was often ridiculed for her lack of knowledge and social skills.

When Tara was seventeen, she decided to take the ACT and apply to college. With the help of a supportive teacher, she was accepted into Brigham Young University. College opened up a whole new world for Tara, but she struggled to fit in and catch up academically. She faced discrimination from her peers and had to navigate the complexities of social interactions that she had never experienced before.

Despite these challenges, Tara excelled academically and eventually won a scholarship to study at Cambridge University. Her time at Cambridge was transformative, as she was exposed to new ideas and perspectives that challenged her upbringing. She began to question her family's beliefs and the toxic dynamics that had shaped her childhood.

Throughout her journey, Tara grapples with the conflicting emotions of love and loyalty towards her family, while also recognizing the need to distance herself from their harmful influence. She struggles with feelings of guilt and a sense of betrayal, but ultimately realizes that her pursuit of education and knowledge is essential for her own growth and well-being.

Educated is a powerful and inspiring memoir that explores the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. Tara Westover's story serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning and challenging the beliefs that have been imposed upon us, and the potential for personal growth and liberation that comes with seeking knowledge and truth.

1. The Power of Education

Educated is a memoir that highlights the transformative power of education. Tara Westover grew up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho, where education was not valued. However, through her determination and thirst for knowledge, she managed to escape her oppressive upbringing and pursue higher education. This book serves as a reminder that education has the potential to liberate individuals from their circumstances and empower them to create a better future.

Westover's journey demonstrates that education is not limited to formal schooling but can also be achieved through self-study and seeking knowledge outside traditional institutions. Her story encourages readers to embrace education as a means of personal growth, critical thinking, and expanding one's horizons. It reminds us that education is a lifelong pursuit that can open doors and provide opportunities for personal and professional success.

2. The Impact of Family Dynamics

Educated delves into the complex dynamics of family relationships and the profound impact they can have on an individual's development. Westover's family was deeply influenced by her father's extreme religious beliefs and paranoia about the government. This led to isolation from society, limited access to healthcare and education, and a culture of physical and emotional abuse.

This book sheds light on the importance of healthy family dynamics and the detrimental effects of toxic relationships. It serves as a reminder that individuals should prioritize their well-being and surround themselves with supportive and nurturing relationships. It also highlights the significance of breaking free from toxic family patterns and creating a healthier future for oneself.

3. The Resilience of the Human Spirit

Educated showcases the incredible resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Despite growing up in a hostile environment, Westover never lost hope and remained determined to pursue her dreams. She faced numerous challenges, including lack of support from her family, financial constraints, and self-doubt. However, she persevered and eventually achieved academic success.

This book serves as a powerful reminder that resilience is a key trait that can help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. It inspires readers to tap into their inner strength, believe in themselves, and never give up, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges.

4. The Importance of Critical Thinking

Educated emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and questioning the beliefs and ideologies that are imposed upon us. Westover's journey towards education involved questioning the dogmas and narratives she had been raised with, which ultimately led to her personal growth and liberation.

This book encourages readers to develop their critical thinking skills, challenge societal norms, and question the information they receive. It highlights the power of independent thought and the ability to form one's own opinions based on evidence and rationality.

5. The Impact of Mental Health

Educated sheds light on the impact of mental health on individuals and their relationships. Westover's father suffered from undiagnosed mental illness, which contributed to the abusive and volatile environment she grew up in. It also affected her mother's ability to protect her and her siblings.

This book highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues within families and communities. It emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and access to mental health resources. It also serves as a reminder that mental health should not be stigmatized, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

6. The Value of Self-Discovery

Educated explores the transformative power of self-discovery and finding one's own identity. Westover's journey towards education allowed her to break free from the constraints of her upbringing and discover her true self.

This book encourages readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, to question their beliefs and values, and to define their own path in life. It emphasizes the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself, even in the face of opposition.

7. The Role of Empathy and Compassion

Educated highlights the importance of empathy and compassion in building meaningful connections with others. Despite the abuse she endured, Westover demonstrates empathy towards her family members and seeks to understand their perspectives.

This book serves as a reminder that empathy and compassion can bridge gaps and foster understanding, even in the most challenging circumstances. It encourages readers to approach others with empathy, to listen and seek to understand their experiences, and to cultivate compassion in their interactions.

8. The Power of Forgiveness

Educated explores the transformative power of forgiveness and the ability to let go of past hurts. Despite the trauma she experienced, Westover finds the strength to forgive her family members and move forward with her life.

This book highlights the healing power of forgiveness and the freedom it brings. It encourages readers to consider forgiveness as a means of personal growth and liberation from the burdens of the past. It also emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing one's own well-being in the process of forgiveness.