Nickel and Dimed: Undercover in Low-Wage America

Barbara Ehrenreich decided to join millions of Americans who work full-time for poverty-level wages in 1998 by leaving her home and accepting whatever jobs she was offered. Nickel and Dimed reveals the darker side of American prosperity and the true cost of the American dream.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Granta Books

Millions of hardworking Americans across the country toil tirelessly, year-round, for meager wages that barely meet their basic needs. In 1998, Barbara Ehrenreich made a bold decision to immerse herself in this reality. With a sense of determination, she left her comfortable home and sought out the most affordable accommodations she could find. She eagerly embraced any job opportunities that came her way, regardless of their pay or conditions.

In her groundbreaking book, Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America, Ehrenreich vividly portrays the low-rent America she encountered during her journey. Through her experiences, she exposes the darker side of American prosperity, revealing the profound costs associated with the pursuit of the American dream.

The book takes readers on a journey through the lives of low-wage workers, from fast-food restaurants and retail stores to nursing homes and hotels. Ehrenreich vividly describes the struggles and hardships these individuals face on a daily basis, from long hours and irregular schedules to inadequate health care and housing.

What emerges from Nickel and Dimed is a sobering portrait of the economic inequality that permeates our society. Ehrenreich highlights the exploitation of workers by employers who rely on their low wages to maintain profitability. She exposes the harsh realities of the gig economy, where temporary and part-time jobs are increasingly prevalent, offering little job security or benefits.

Furthermore, the book sheds light on the surprising generosity and resilience of the low-wage workers themselves. Despite their financial struggles, they exhibit a remarkable capacity for community and support, forming strong bonds with their coworkers and creating makeshift families amidst the chaos.

Nickel and Dimed is a powerful indictment of the economic system that perpetuates poverty and inequality. It challenges readers to consider the broader implications of our economic choices and the impact they have on the lives of individuals and communities. Through her compelling storytelling and insightful analysis, Ehrenreich offers a roadmap for creating a more just and equitable society.

In conclusion, Nickel and Dimed is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the realities of low-wage work and the economic challenges facing millions of Americans. Barbara Ehrenreich's book provides a poignant and eye-opening perspective on the darker side of American prosperity, challenging us to confront the true cost of the American dream and work towards a more just and equitable society.

Weight: 174g
Dimension: 176 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783787548