Poor: Grit, courage, and the life-changing value of self-belief

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My only critique is that the way the epilogue attempted to tie the author’s story to broader social narratives felt a little slapped on, as though the editor said “make sure this connects to ALL poor people. As a voracious reader, much like the esteemed author, this is simply one of the best books I have ever read. There were people, she says, “trying to keep me hopeful, but it’s very hard to battle against a lifetime of poverty and belief within a family. O’Sullivan expertly gives us an insight into the genuine harm of her parents’ addictions but by no means defines them by it.

So, for several months she squatted in an abandoned flat, which became a teenage hangout for drinking and drugs, until social services found out and she was moved to a mother-and-baby hostel, then later to a council flat. Overall, O’Sullivan’s story shows the importance of resilience, self-belief and the determination to pick yourself up no matter how far you fall.

Her parents were broken due to addiction and the children were also let down badly by the system – so it was neglect on repeat which would wear anyone down and push you back into your corner. During her schooldays there had been teachers who looked out for her - beacons of stability in a chaotic childhood. The people who are making decisions are clearly very educated and yet they don’t seem to have the long-term lens on what investing in reducing poverty can do. This was both heartbreaking, inspiring and just wonderful to read and one that I will not forget in a hurry.

Her book is a stirring argument for the importance of looking out for our kids, of giving them hope, practical support and meaningful opportunities. Five rackety years followed – barely coping, drinking to escape – until Katriona, now living in her father’s native Dublin, hit rock bottom. This should be required reading for anyone going to work with children about the importance of intervention and the impact of your words on others.Through unwavering honesty, O’Sullivan depicts her turbulent, traumatic childhood and teenage years and her constant battle in developing self-worth while living in the most difficult of circumstances. He had gone to Ireland with her mother after skipping bail following another arrest, and he arrived one day to take her son back there with him. Drawing from my personal experience working in the 3rd level education system in Ireland, I have firsthand insight into the challenges students confront—both those who successfully navigate the system and those who struggle. Coming from poverty dreams aren't sky high, most of the time they barely go past the ceiling of a council house.