6+ Favorite Books on Economic Inequality (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on economic inequality (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
$10.63

In The Warmth of Other Suns, Isabel Wilkerson dives into the Great Migration, where millions of African Americans left the South for the North, seeking a better life away from segregation and racism. I found her exploration of this pivotal moment in American history incredibly powerful. The book combines personal stories with broader themes of hope and systemic racism, revealing the harsh realities that often contradicted the dream of equality. Honestly, I loved everything about it—the structure, the details, and the pacing. It’s a must-read that should be in every history curriculum. I wouldn’t change a thing!
Pros:
The book provides an intimate look at the Great Migration through first-hand accounts.
It teaches important lessons about hope, courage, and hard work.
The author’s writing style and structure are highly praised.
It's a significant part of American history that should be included in every curriculum.
Cons:
Nothing - I wouldn't change a thing.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 03:04 am GMT
American Character by Colin Woodard
$11.97

In American Character, Colin Woodard explores the ongoing tug-of-war between individual liberty and the common good in U.S. history, tracing this dynamic from the early colonies to today. I found his approach engaging, as he blends solid political analysis with storytelling, making complex ideas accessible. Woodard suggests that a coalition of specific regions could break the current political deadlock. While I appreciated the insights, I wished he had addressed the growing electoral strength of the Deep South and Appalachia more thoroughly. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that sheds light on America's political landscape.
Pros:
The book offers a clear and approachable narrative.
It combines rigorous political science with storytelling.
It provides useful insights into balancing individual liberty and the common good.
Cons:
The author did not address the potential population growth and electoral strength of Appalachia and the Deep South.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 03:03 am GMT
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J. D. Vance
$11.30

In Hillbilly Elegy, J.D. Vance offers a personal glimpse into the struggles of the working-class in America, particularly in Appalachia. The review highlights how well-written and engaging the book is, praising its thoughtful approach to complex social issues. I found Vance's insights on resilience, cultural differences, and the impact of social capital to be particularly eye-opening. The book challenges readers to reconsider their views on poverty and personal responsibility. Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend this read—it's a valuable addition to anyone's non-fiction list, and I just wish I had picked it up sooner.
Pros:
Well-written and engaging narrative
Thoughtful analysis of complex issues
Provides a timely and human perspective on a national crisis
Offers valuable lessons and insights throughout the book
Encourages deeper thinking and discussion about societal challenges
Cons:
None
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 03:03 am GMT
Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant
$3.40

Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant is a travel memoir about his move from New York City to Pluto, Mississippi. I found Grant's writing engaging and insightful, as he doesn’t just skim the surface of Southern life but really immerses himself in it. He captures the heat, humor, and complexity of the region, all while sharing delightful anecdotes. The book feels more like a memoir since he buys a home there, allowing for deeper connections with the locals. Honestly, I loved it so much that I wished it didn’t end! If you’re into travel books, this one’s a must-read.
Pros:
Grant captures the complexities of living in the Deep South.
The book is entertaining and engaging with funny anecdotes.
It provides a deeper understanding of the region through personal experiences.
Cons:
The book ended! I couldn't think of anything I didn't like.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 02:00 am GMT
American Nations by Colin Woodard
$11.43

In American Nations, Colin Woodard explores how the diverse cultures within America shape our history and influence our present. He presents the idea that the country is made up of eleven distinct nations, each with its own unique values and identities. I found his perspective enlightening, making the complexities of American politics much clearer. There’s nothing I didn’t like about the book—it's engaging and thought-provoking. I even recommended it to my 12-year-old, who loved it too! If you’re curious about America’s regional differences, this book is a must-read.
Pros:
Revolutionary perspective on American history
Clear framework for understanding regional differences
Engaging and insightful writing style
Cons:
Nothing!
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/15/2025 09:00 pm GMT
White Flight by Kevin Kruse
$24.59

In White Flight: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Conservatism, Kevin Kruse explores the migration of white Americans from urban centers to suburbs, using Atlanta as a key example. The review highlights Kruse's thorough research and engaging writing style, making complex historical events relatable and relevant. I appreciated the book's insights into the local history of Atlanta, revealing how the politics of race and economics shaped the city. However, I wished for more maps and broader comparisons to other cities. Overall, it's a compelling read that connects past events to today's political landscape.
Pros:
Heavily researched with lots of primary sources.
Fair to all perspectives, promoting empathy.
Clear, concise, and accessible to non-historians.
Acute relevance to current issues in Atlanta.
Cons:
Needed more maps for better understanding.
Lacked examples from other cities to show broader trends.
Visualization of political alliances would have been helpful.
A bullet-point listing of hypotheses would have clarified key points.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 12:00 am GMT
Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo
$8.42

Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo offers a vivid glimpse into life in a Mumbai slum, focusing on a year of struggle for local families post-2008 financial crisis. I found Boo’s writing engaging and fast-paced, with well-drawn characters that made the story captivating. However, I wished for more background info and clearer character reminders, as I got a bit lost along the way. Ultimately, the book taught me that in a diverse country like India, no single story can encapsulate the whole. I highly recommend it for anyone curious about India or looking for a compelling narrative.
Pros:
The writing was fast-paced, descriptive, and engaging.
The characters were all interesting.
The setting changed a lot despite being in one neighborhood.
The narrative was well-structured and flowed well.
Cons:
The book had background information, but not enough for me.
There weren’t enough signals to remind me of the characters, leading to confusion.
Buy Now Read My Review

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Also check your local library. Thank you!

10/16/2025 01:02 am GMT
Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

$11.99

Buy Now

I earn a commission at no cost to you when bought via this link. Thank you!

10/16/2025 06:02 am GMT