Summaries of books about Sociology:
iGen
Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy--and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood--and What That Means for the Rest of Us
Jean M. Twenge
The book examines the behaviors, attitudes, and lifestyles of the post-Millennial generation, born after 1995, highlighting their heavy reliance on technology, their tendency towards safety and mental health issues, and their delayed approach to traditional adult milestones. It explores the social and psychological impact of growing up in a hyper-connected world, suggesting that while this generation is more inclusive and less prone to risky behaviors, they may also be less prepared for independent adult life.
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Grandad's Funeral
A Heartbreaking True Story of Child Abuse, Betrayal and Revenge.
Emily Wilkins
The book narrates the traumatic experiences of a young girl who suffers from severe child abuse and the subsequent emotional turmoil that follows her into adulthood. It explores themes of betrayal as she confronts her past, seeking justice and healing from the scars left by her abusers.
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What We Don't Talk About When We Talk About Fat
Aubrey Gordon
The book delves into the social and systemic issues surrounding fatness, challenging the prevailing narratives about obesity and health. It combines personal experience with research to confront discrimination and advocate for fat acceptance and body positivity.
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Exploited
The heartbreaking true story of a teenage girl trapped in a world of abuse and violence
Maggie Hartley
The book recounts the harrowing experiences of a teenage girl who endures severe abuse and violence, as she is taken into the care of a foster carer. It details her journey of recovery and the challenges faced by both the girl and her carer in navigating the aftermath of trauma and the path towards healing.
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American Prison
A Reporter's Undercover Journey into the Business of Punishment
Shane Bauer
The book chronicles the author's experiences working undercover as a guard in a private prison in Louisiana, exposing the harsh realities and abuses within the for-profit prison industry. It intertwines this narrative with a historical analysis of the development of private prisons in America, revealing the economic and political forces that sustain this system.
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The Spirit Level
Why Greater Equality Makes Societies Stronger
Richard Wilkinson|Kate Pickett
The book presents evidence that societies with more equal distribution of incomes have better health and fewer social problems than societies with greater disparities in wealth. It argues that addressing income inequality leads to a higher quality of life for all, including improvements in trust, community life, mental health, and life expectancy.
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The End of Policing
Alex S. Vitale
The book critiques the role of policing in society, arguing that law enforcement exacerbates social inequalities and fails to address underlying social issues. It advocates for alternative approaches to public safety, including decriminalization, restorative justice, and investment in community services.
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A Stolen Childhood
A Dark Past, a Terrible Secret, a Girl Without a Future
Casey Watson
The book recounts the harrowing story of a young girl named Eleanor who is placed into foster care with the author, revealing the severe abuse and neglect she suffered in her past. As the narrative unfolds, the foster carer uncovers the dark secret that has left Eleanor traumatized and struggling to envision a hopeful future.
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The Least of Us
True Tales of America and Hope in the Time of Fentanyl and Meth
Sam Quinones
The book explores the devastating impact of synthetic drugs, particularly fentanyl and methamphetamine, on American communities, delving into personal stories and the larger societal changes they reflect. It also highlights the resilience and innovative responses of those affected as they seek to rebuild lives and address the complex challenges posed by these potent substances.
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Spare Parts
Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream
Joshua Davis
The book chronicles the true story of four Latino high school students who form an underdog robotics team. Despite their limited resources and undocumented status in the U.S., they compete against the country's top universities and strive for success and recognition.
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