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Nickel and Dimed and the Working Poor

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Nickel and Dimed and the Working Poor
Book Review
Nickel and Dimed and the Working Poor |

Abstract
In this book review we were asked to read Nickel and Dimed by Ehrenich and The Working Poor by Shipler. After reading the two books throughout the first half of the semester I would like to answer; the reactions the readings gave to me. What impact did the books have on my thinking? Also describe the experiences of the people that are in the readings closely resembling myself. I would also like to answer what I have learned in how this material impacts social policy and lastly which of the two books I enjoyed the most.

Impact (heading) 1. Discuss your reaction to reading these books.
My reaction to reading each book was very different for each reading. The Working Poor by Shipler seemed to me to be not as personal to the writer as Nickel and Dimed by Ehrenich was. I understand that The Working Poor was personal as will but the writer was writing about personal stories from other individuals, looking from outside the box and then talking about someone else’s stories with his own words. I would have to say that reading Nickel and Dimed was a lot more interesting and was a bit more personal from the writer’s views. Ms. Ehrenich was willing to get down to the behind the scenes action in her reactions from other people that think she is like everyone else in the workforce. 2. What impact did each book have on your thinking? In Ehrencih book it was hard to understand how people can work such low paying jobs. When she was visiting Maine and working with the other employees she found herself having to breaks the rules of her arrangement and calls in a prescription from a dermatologist. The other people that she works with don’t have that kind of luxury and ability. That’s where I find it interesting that people like Holly a fellow employer have no choice but to work every day even if they fell sick, she explains to Ehrenich that she believes she is pregnant but had no choice and most continue

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