A review by tlctbr
Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right by Arlie Russell Hochschild

5.0

This book was just phenomenal. As moderate Democrat, I’ve struggled to understand how and why the Republican Party has moved so much further to the right over the past 10-15 years. Although I embody the compassionate tendencies common in so-called “bleeding heart liberals,” I’ve found myself struggling to hold compassion for far right voters, with whom I vehemently disagree. Through her research, Hochschild has helped me scale what she calls the Empathy Wall. No, I don’t agree with the right. No, I will not vote republican. But at least now I understand the stories of people who do.

This book has also made me want to explore and question my own deep story, something I think we all need to do once in a while.

If the Right baffles and upsets you, read this book. I can’t say that it will make you more accepting of Trump, but perhaps it will bring you some understanding of the people who voted for him. Understanding is the first step in healing our country’s divide.