The best 22 Poverty books

This book explores the lives of families living in extreme poverty in the United States, surviving on just $2.00 a day. Through in-depth interviews and research, the author sheds light on the harsh realities and challenges faced by these families, and offers potential solutions to address this pressing issue. It provides a thought-provoking examination of poverty and its impact on individuals and society.

Heartland is a memoir by Sarah Smarsh that explores her upbringing in rural Kansas and the challenges faced by working-class families in America. Through personal anecdotes and social commentary, Smarsh delves into issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education, offering a poignant and thought-provoking examination of the American heartland.

Savage Inequalities (1991) by Jonathan Kozol explores the stark differences in funding and resources between public schools in affluent and low-income communities in the United States. Through extensive research and personal anecdotes, Kozol sheds light on the systemic inequalities that perpetuate educational disadvantage for marginalized students.

The Other America by Michael Harrington is a groundbreaking book that examines poverty and inequality in the United States. Published in 1962, it sheds light on the hidden side of American society, revealing the harsh living conditions and struggles faced by the impoverished. Harrington's work sparked national debate and ultimately influenced government policies aimed at addressing these issues.

Teaching with Poverty in Mind by Eric Jensen addresses the impact of poverty on education and offers practical strategies for educators to support students living in poverty. The book explores the effects of poverty on students' cognitive development and behavior, and provides insights into creating a positive learning environment for all students.

No Fixed Address by Susin Nielsen is a heartwarming novel that follows twelve-year-old Felix as he navigates life without a permanent home. Living in a van with his mother, Felix tries to keep their situation a secret while dealing with school, friendships, and the looming fear of being discovered. It's a story of resilience, friendship, and the importance of finding a place to call home.

Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell is a gripping novel set in the rural Ozarks. It follows 16-year-old Ree Dolly as she embarks on a dangerous quest to find her missing father, who has put their home at risk by using it as collateral for his bail bond. With a stark and atmospheric writing style, Woodrell delves into the harsh realities of poverty, family, and survival in a tight-knit community.

Hand to Mouth is a thought-provoking memoir by Linda Tirado that delves into the harsh realities of living in poverty. Through her own experiences and insightful analysis, Tirado challenges common misconceptions about the poor and offers a raw and honest portrayal of the daily struggles faced by millions of Americans.

An Invisible Thread tells the true story of a chance encounter between a busy executive and a disadvantaged boy, and the unlikely friendship that develops between them. As they navigate through their own challenges and triumphs, the book explores the power of kindness, compassion, and the belief that small acts of generosity can make a big difference in someone's life.

Dark Places by Gillian Flynn is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family, memory, and the aftermath of a brutal massacre. The story follows Libby Day, the sole survivor of her family's murder, as she investigates the events of that fateful night and uncovers shocking truths about her past. With its dark and twisted plot, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

All Over But the Shoutin' is a poignant memoir by Rick Bragg that delves into his hardscrabble upbringing in rural Alabama. With raw honesty and lyrical prose, Bragg chronicles his family's poverty, his mother's unwavering strength, and his own journey to become a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist. It's a powerful story of resilience, love, and the pursuit of a better life.

Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison is a powerful and heartbreaking coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of family, abuse, and survival. Set in the 1950s, it tells the story of Ruth Anne “Bone” Boatwright, a young girl born out of wedlock in South Carolina. As she navigates the challenges of her tumultuous family life, Bone must find the strength to stand up for herself and break free from the cycle of violence.

The Midwife is a memoir by Jennifer Worth that recounts her experiences as a young midwife in the East End of London in the 1950s. It delves into the challenges, joys, and heartbreaking moments she encountered while delivering babies in the poverty-stricken and vibrant community. Through her poignant storytelling, Worth sheds light on the resilience of women and the importance of midwifery during a time of immense social change.

Free Lunch by Rex Ogle is a powerful memoir that delves into the author's childhood experiences with poverty and hunger. Set in the 1990s, Ogle recounts his time in middle school where he navigates the challenges of being on the free lunch program, facing bullying, and dealing with his parents' tumultuous relationship. This raw and honest account sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many families and the resilience needed to overcome them.

All Over But the Shoutin' is a powerful memoir by Rick Bragg that delves into his impoverished upbringing in rural Alabama and his tumultuous relationship with his abusive father. Through vivid storytelling and raw emotion, Bragg reflects on the resilience of his mother and the hardships he faced, ultimately finding success as a journalist despite the odds stacked against him.

Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that delves into the life of a young girl named Bone, who is born out of wedlock in South Carolina. The book explores themes of poverty, abuse, and resilience as Bone navigates her tumultuous family dynamics and struggles to find her own identity in the face of adversity.

Free Lunch by Rex Ogle is a powerful memoir that delves into the author's experience growing up in poverty. Through raw and honest storytelling, Ogle sheds light on the challenges he faced as a young boy, from feeling ashamed of being on the free lunch program at school to dealing with family issues at home. This book offers a poignant reflection on class, privilege, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Hand to Mouth by Linda Tirado is a powerful memoir that delves into the harsh realities of living in poverty. Through her own personal experiences, Tirado offers a raw and honest account of the challenges faced by those struggling to make ends meet. With a sharp wit and unapologetic tone, she challenges the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding poverty, shedding light on the systemic issues that perpetuate this cycle.

Heartland by Sarah Smarsh is a memoir that delves into the author's own upbringing in rural Kansas, exploring the challenges and complexities of working-class life in America. Through her personal story, Smarsh sheds light on issues of poverty, class, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Savage Inequalities by Jonathan Kozol is a powerful examination of the disparities in the American education system. Through compelling storytelling and in-depth research, Kozol exposes the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities among schools serving different socioeconomic communities. This eye-opening book challenges readers to confront the systemic issues that perpetuate educational inequality and advocates for meaningful change.

Teaching with Poverty in Mind explores the impact of poverty on students' learning and provides practical strategies for educators to help break the cycle of poverty. Drawing on research and real-life examples, author Eric Jensen offers insights into how to create a supportive and enriching learning environment that addresses the unique needs of students from low-income backgrounds.

The Other America by Michael Harrington examines the hidden poverty and inequality in the United States. Originally published in 1962, the book sheds light on the millions of Americans living in deprivation and challenges the prevailing belief that the country is a land of prosperity for all. Harrington calls for social and political change to address this "other America" and bring about a more just society.