Book Title: The American way of poverty: How the other half still lives

Author: Sasha Abramsky

Reviewer: Marissa Norris

Dr. Moyer

The reality of the state of poverty in America has gone without government intervention for so long that is so expensive to fix. Absolute and relative poverty are common measures of poverty for many citizens in rural and urban communities.

The reality of poverty being detailed as a crisis was what stood out to me from the Abramsky book: The American way of poverty: How the other half still lives. Many Americans who live in rural communities lack the same accessible resources those in big cities have. If I was to suddenly in major crisis I would depend on my emergency fund to help me with any immediate expenses. I would seek out any resources that would help me become more stable as well. Emotionally many in poverty do not have a supportive resource to see out when needed.  A trusted individual can listen, share encouragement, and offer a helping hand. It is important that an individual understand that their current situation is not their final destination. Functioning physically and psychologically during a crisis can have long-term effects on an individual. I’ve experienced poverty in the past when my income limited my ability to have basic needs. Paying for adequate shelter, having access to clean running water, and clothing for daily living seemed impossible to afford on my tight living budget. Like some Americans I was approved for Food Stamps which provided me the additional financial support to adjust my spending and put myself in a more stable position. I no longer require Food Stamps assistance and would like to help others no longer depend on Food Stamps.

I would recommend this book to others. I feel many youth lack an understand of homelessness in American. By informing the youth on this crisis the likelihood of them being homeless is less. Children are the future and it is important we share informant to help them develop. Not sharing how homelessness is a crisis means it not occurring. If we ignore the many people lacking access to adequate shelter, having access to clean running water, and clothing for daily living we are saying they do not matter.

5 STARS = Highly recommend