Heartland: A Memoir of Working Hard and Being Broke in the Richest Country on Earth

Smarsh references several political milestones that occurred as she was growing up. What are some modern political milestones or speeches, and how might they reflect the state of the working class in America today?

Do you know any families like Smarsh’s? If not, why do you think that is? Do you see any effects of the socioeconomic divide in America in your own life?

How does access to healthcare affect different members of Smarsh’s family? Do you think access to medicine should be available to all? Why or why not?