Structure

The book is divided into 88 brief essays, each of which is technically self-contained, but which also overlap in terms of theme and subject matter with other essays in the book. One effect of this structure is that Biss can transition rapidly between distinct yet interrelated topics, such as money, work, and capitalism. The book does not have a specific informational progression like many nonfiction books. While the book is very educational and well researched, it does not necessarily seek to inform the reader of specific principles or persuade them of specific arguments. Instead, the book simply presents a variety of ideas and perspectives based in Biss’ experiences and her own research. These essays thereby function mostly to provoke the reader’s own reflections and further learning.

Most of the individual essays are structured such that they begin with an anecdote from Biss’ personal life, which then transitions...