Troubled

A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class

De: Rob Henderson

Narrado por: Rob Henderson

NATIONAL BESTSELLER
One of The Economist’s Best Books of the Year!

In this “affecting…intriguing…heartbreaking” (Booklist) coming-of-age memoir, Rob Henderson vividly recounts growing up in foster care, enlisting in the US Air Force, attending elite universities, and pioneering the concept of “luxury beliefs”—ideas and opinions that confer status on the upper class while inflicting costs on the less fortunate.

Rob Henderson was born to a drug-addicted mother and a father he never met, ultimately shuttling between ten different foster homes in California. When he was adopted into a loving family, he hoped that life would finally be stable and safe. But divorce, tragedy, poverty, and violence marked his adolescent and teen years, propelling Henderson to join the military upon completing high school.

A “vivid, insightful, poignant, and powerful” (Nicholas A. Christakis, author of Blueprint) portrait of shattered families, desperation, and determination, Troubled recounts Henderson’s expectation-defying young life and juxtaposes his story with those of his friends who wound up incarcerated or killed.

As he navigates the peaks and valleys of social class, Henderson finds that he remains on the outside looking in. His greatest achievements—a military career, an undergraduate education from Yale, a PhD from Cambridge—feel like hollow measures of success. He argues that stability at home is more important than external accomplishments, and he illustrates the ways the most privileged among us benefit from a set of social standards that actively harm the most vulnerable.

A beautiful and important memoir for our times

Well written and well read by the author, Troubled is an excellent memoir and an important testament to the critical role that families play in our broader social challenges.

Captivating

Clear-headed, captivating, and thought provoking. Great commentary on elite school thinking. Highly enjoyable read.

Wow! This book was a non-stop listen.

I loved this book! It explores personal growth and societal issues in a powerful and thought-provoking way. The author's insights and storytelling kept me engaged throughout, providing a fresh view on overcoming challenges and promoting positive change. I recommend this book to those seeking inspiration and profound insights into personal and societal matters. It's a gem that will linger with you after finishing the final page.

An unforgettable read - a MUST for any parents or teachers

Incredible story and insight. I can’t remember the last time I read a book this meaningful.

Worth your time

The story Rob tells here was very captivating. I remember knowing some kids who were in the foster care system when I was growing up. I didn't quite realize what it might be like to be in their shoes. The insights he has gained from his upbringing and education are very valuable. I really appreciate the effort that went into sharing them with us. I'm sure most others will too.