*NEW DATE!* April Meeting: Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich

Barbara Ehrenreich's Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America (2001) is written from her perspective as an undercover journalist and investigates the impact of the 1996 welfare reform act on the working poor in the United States. The author lived and worked low-wage jobs (waitress, maid, Walmart clerk, etc.) to see if she could survive on minimum wage, inspired by welfare reform rhetoric. The book reveals the harsh realities of the working poor, showing that one job is often not enough to cover basic expenses like rent, and that these jobs are physically and mentally demanding, challenging the idea that "any job" is a ticket to a better life. It became a classic social commentary, highlighting the struggles of low-income workers and remaining relevant today.

Reasons for Challenges/Bans:
* The book has faced numerous challenges and bans in U.S. schools and districts, often cited for promoting socialism, portraying capitalism negatively, using profanity, and including offensive references to Christianity.

Hope to see you there!