Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

Essayist and cultural critic Barbara Ehrenreich has always specialized in turning received wisdom on its head with intelligence, clarity, and verve. With some 12 million women being pushed into the labor market by welfare reform, she decided to do some good old-fashioned journalism and find out just how they were going to survive on the wages of the unskilled--at $6 to $7 an hour, only half of what is considered a living wage. So she did what millions of Americans do, she looked for a job and a place to live, worked that job, and tried to make ends meet.

As a waitress in Florida, where her name is suddenly transposed to "girl," trailer trash becomes a demographic category to aspire to with rent at $675 per month. In Maine, where she ends up working as both a cleaning woman and a nursing home assistant, she must first fill out endless pre-employment tests with trick questions such as "Some people work better when they're a little bit high." In Minnesota, she works at Wal-Mart under the repressive surveillance of men and women whose job it is to monitor her behavior for signs of sloth, theft, drug abuse, or worse. She even gets to experience the humiliation of the urine test.

So, do the poor have survival strategies unknown to the middle class? And did Ehrenreich feel the "bracing psychological effects of getting out of the house, as promised by the wonks who brought us welfare reform?" Nah. Even in her best-case scenario, with all the advantages of education, health, a car, and money for first month's rent, she has to work two jobs, seven days a week, and still almost winds up in a shelter. As Ehrenreich points out with her potent combination of humor and outrage, the laws of supply and demand have been reversed. Rental prices skyrocket, but wages never rise. Rather, jobs are so cheap as measured by the pay that workers are encouraged to take as many as they can. Behind those trademark Wal-Mart vests, it turns out, are the borderline homeless. With her characteristic wry wit and her unabashedly liberal bent, Ehrenreich brings the invisible poor out of hiding and, in the process, the world they inhabit--where civil liberties are often ignored and hard work fails to live up to its reputation as the ticket out of poverty. --Lesley Reed

Book Description

Millions of Americans work for poverty-level wages, and one day Barbara Ehrenreich decided to join them. She was inspired in part by the rhetoric surrounding welfare reform, which promised that any job equals a better life. But how can anyone survive, let alone prosper, on $6 to $7 an hour? To find out, Ehrenreich moved from Florida to Maine to Minnesota, taking the cheapest lodgings available and accepting work as a waitress, hotel maid, house cleaner, nursing-home aide, and Wal-Mart salesperson. She soon discovered that even the lowliest occupations require exhausting mental and physical efforts. And one job is not enough; you need at least two if you intend to live indoors.Nickel and Dimed reveals low-wage America in all its tenacity, anxiety, and surprising generositya land of Big Boxes, fast food, and a thousand desperate strategies for survival. Instantly acclaimed for its insight, humor, and passion, this book is changing the way America perceives its working poor.

Customer Reviews:

Should be required reading!.......2007-10-19

Excellent book! It gives a voice to many Americans who currently are not being heard - the working poor. Should be required reading for everyone.

interesting perspective.......2007-10-17

I read this years ago but came across it again while packing. I have an awful memory but for some reason this book has stayed with me. I work and go to school so reading about her experiences with being a server and cleaning brought back memories (not good ones). I enjoyed reading about her struggles on getting by and having to deal with her family while she was away. She is a journalist so that had made me feel like jumping into that career even more so at the time. I do however feel like she cheated during her "investigation," because she had ran out of money or needed something from her "previous" life. I must also add that she made good points about working for certain big companies and how corporate places treat their employees. I don't know if her book would pertain to how things are today but I'm sure some things never change.

A Necessary Read.......2007-10-14

Some Amazon Online customers disagree with my fondness for Nickel and Dimed. Various readers consider the author to be elitist and sheltered. These people consider comments such as, "I am, of course, very different from the people who normally fill America's least attractive jobs," to be arrogant. However, these comments can also be interpreted as Ehrenreich's admittance of her obvious differences from most low-wage workers, as well as her ability to give credit to her newfound co-workers. This reader goes on to criticize the author's choice of locations; Florida and Maine especially, because as he claimed, they will always be more expensive than most places. This is not necessarily factual. It will always be difficult- virtually impossible- to squeak by when earning $2.73 per hour plus tips at a low-traffic restaurant. This is inevitable whether the restaurant is in Key West, Florida (a supposedly "rich" city) or a rural area, where the cost of living will require other fees. Yet another complaint from this reader is that Ehrenreich is racist in her statement, "My worry that the Latinos might be hogging all the crap jobs and substandard housing for themselves." On the surface, this comment absolutely sounds racist. Throughout the entire book, though, Ehrenreich systemically drops these types of comments with the intention of a) being sarcastic and b) exemplifying how easy it is to develop stereotypes of people (i.e. oppressing others) when you, yourself, are oppressed. As seen, the author cannot be blamed for these particular wrongdoings.

An Important Read.......2007-10-09

For anyone who did not have to struggle through a minimum wage job as an adult, this book is for you. Way too many Americans think people can survive on minimum wage. This will humble that opinion and identify your misconceptions.

Good read.......2007-10-05

I had to read this book for class and i must say it was a good read. extremely easy to read and equally funny.

Average customer rating:

The Labor Relations Process
William H. Holley , Kenneth M. Jennings , and Roger S. Wolters
Manufacturer: South-Western College Pub
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Book Description

This comprehensive text provides the current information on research studies, issues and events in labor relations. The book integrates real-world examples and quotes from practitioners in order to bring this dynamic field to life. The Labor Relations Process examines the labor movement from its inception to current and emerging trends, including such topics as unions, labor agreements, collective bargaining, arbitration and labor relations in various business segments including government, white collar, and international contexts. The book gives an in-depth analysis of all facets of the relationship between management and labor, including a study of the rights and responsibilities of unions and management, the negotiation and administration of labor agreements, and labor-management cooperation. Other topics that are explored include the results of the labor relations process and collective bargaining issues such as health care costs containment, pensions, labor productivity and alternative work arrangements.

Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining: Cases, Practice, and Law (8th Edition)

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Dry
My first textbook order from Amazon
Fairly good - Not excellent
Great Book
Concise & complete

Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining: Cases, Practice, and Law (8th Edition)
Michael R. Carrell , and Christina Heavrin J.D.
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
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Binding: Hardcover

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Book Description

The eighth edition of this best-selling book continues to provide readers with a realistic picture of actual collective bargaining and labor relations situations drawn from the authors' considerable experiences. Sections of actual labor agreements as well as arbitration cases and decisions of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the courts illustrate and emphasize contemporary issues of collective bargaining and labor relations. Experts in the fields of labor law and arbitration have contributed “tips” on how the concepts in the book can actually be applied. In addition to covering history and law, workplace challenges, the collective bargaining process, and labor contracts, major features of this new edition include expanded coverage of public sector labor relations, international collective bargaining issues, union organizing and avoidance strategies, and collective bargaining in professional sports. Because of its comprehensive coverage and excellent resource material, this book is an excellent reference for human resource directors, labor relations directors, personnel directors, and labor negotiators.

Customer Reviews:

Dry.......2007-02-19

I only bought this book because I'm in labor relations class. It's as dry as a piece of stale bread. But if you want to know anything and everything about Labor Relations and the history, BUY IT!

My first textbook order from Amazon.......2007-01-11

This is the first time I have order a textbook online. My experience was awesome. I received my order in a timely manner. The textbook was in outstanding condition. This text consisted of labor law material along with various labor law cases and procedures. I just order another book I am awaiting for the early arrival of this text.
THANK YOU AMAZON !!

Fairly good - Not excellent.......2004-11-19

I just took a college level class in which we used this book as the textbook. There is a lot of good information inside which provides a good introduction to the novice on how the process of collective bargaining works. It begins with the history of how it started and continues through the specific issues that collective bargaining entails. There is even a copy of the National Labor Relations Act in the back of the book.

There are some rough spots that should be worked out in the next edition however. Sometimes I found myself lost in the verbage that the author chose to use and had no idea what the point had been. The case studies at the ends of the chapters have no solutions, they ask questions of you and then leave you - a novice - to flounder with no professional direction in the event - which is frequent - that you can't figure out the answer. And, there are some typo's in key locations which end up disproving, instead of proving, the point that the author was attempting to make (very confusing.)

This text is best used in conjunction with lectures by a good professor if you want to get the most out of it.

Great Book.......2002-05-17

Great book for the novice negotiator or student.Current, easy to read, practical examples.

Concise & complete.......2002-04-11

The authors provide a complete & concise discussion of the process of collective bargaining within a general labor relations context. Many, current cases, tips from experts, and historical references help present the concepts. A solid text for the novice negotiator or interested student.

Average customer rating:

Without question the BEST Labor Economics text ever!
All about Labor Economics

Labor Economics
George J Borjas
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill/Irwin
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Labor Economics

ASIN: 0072311983

Book Description

The second edition of this well-received text blends coverage of traditional topics with modern theory and developments into a superb text by one of our top Labor Economists. The author's current experience at the Kennedy School of Government allows him to incorporate new policy examples and a leaner presentation of the theory.

Customer Reviews:

Without question the BEST Labor Economics text ever!.......2002-12-19

This is truly an amazing work, which shows so many models of labor market phenomena at the undergraduate level that an undergraduate's economics education is incomplete without it. This book is essential reading for both undergraduates and policymakers who want to learn labor economics, economics in general, or have a deeper understanding of public policy issues. The best features are its unmatched explanations of human capital models, labor market discrimination models, and labor union models -- which will change the way you think of these issues and give deeper understanding. The book is both concise, deep, a quick and fun read, and makes Nobel-prize winning material accessible to any undergraduate or policy maker.

All about Labor Economics.......2001-07-30

George Borjas in this book deal the basic of de Labor Economics, it's very usefull for the pre-grade student and it's preleminary to introduce in the labor world (academic). It's good but it's necesary to complement with anothers advanced books for a improve vision.

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Labor Relations (12th Edition)
Arthur A Sloane , and Fred Witney
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
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Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 013196223X

Book Description

Labor Relations, the most accurate, readable, timely, and valuable book of its kind on the market, provides readers with a basic understanding of unionism in its natural habitat and a fundamental appreciation of the union-management process. It focuses on the negotiation and administration of labor agreements, and emphasizes the more significant bargaining issues. The 12th edition includes much new material and an extensively revised and updated bibliography. For vice-presidents and directors of labor relations, union presidents, and others who are full-time labor-management professionals for either managements or unions.

Workforce 2020 : Work and Workers in the 21st Century

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The Future of the Workforce Described for Policy Makers
Work Force 2020

Workforce 2020 : Work and Workers in the 21st Century
Richard W. Judy , Carol D'Amico , and Gary L. Geipel
Manufacturer: Hudson Institute
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ASIN: 1558130616

Book Description

Ten years ago Hudson Institute's landmark study Workforce 2000 set the agenda for a new understanding of workforce issues. Described by the New York Times as "one of the most influential studies ever produced by a think tank," this groundbreaking report set the terms for much of the policy discussion at the government and corporate levels on these issues. It was the first to call attention to the changing demographics of the American workforce and the growing gap between the skills likely to be required for entry-level jobs in the future and those likely to be possessed by new entrants into the labor force.

Now Hudson releases its long-awaited follow-up: Workforce 2000 Revisited. Like its predecessor, the new book examines the trends that shape the economy and workforce, and combines them into a unique and fresh body of analysis. The authors set the record straight on the demographic makeup of the workforce in the years 2000 to 2020 and challenge the conventional wisdom on trends affecting American workers and employers. Analyzing important emerging issues, they detail the coming demographic changes in the workforce--and their potentially serious effects on the job market and the economy as a whole.

The book also considers the effects of globalization on U.S. business and the American worker, the impact of rapid technological change, the "skills gap" identified in the earlier report, and the need for a new model of education, training, and employment services to prepare workers for the jobs of the next century.

Workforce 2000 Revisited is an indispensable guide to the next decade of workforce issues.

Customer Reviews:

The Future of the Workforce Described for Policy Makers.......2003-03-25

This book describes the future workforce to policy makers. It gives individuals making career decisions some objective, long-range data about the future. Projections include fastest-growing occupations, ethnic and age mix of the workforce, needs of employers, and income to be expected.

As reviewed in Annotated Bibliography of Learning A Living, A Guide to Planning Your Career and Finding A Job for People with Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Dyslexia by Dale S. Brown

Work Force 2020.......2000-01-28

This book is a masterpiece of research. So much is said very succinctly. It is vast in scope, breath and depth yet very understandable. Everything is supported by research. Numerous charts are extremely well done, informative and simple to understand. If you want to plan your career or help guide someone elses future, you must read this book. It has vital information about job trends, types of jobs, and what they pay. You will not be sorry about reading this book.

The 21st Century at Work: Forces Shaping the Future Workforce and Workplace in the United States

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The 21st Century at Work: Forces Shaping the Future Workforce and Workplace in the United States
Lynn A. Karoly
Manufacturer: RAND Corporation
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Book Description

Looks at the likely evolution of the U.S. workforce and workplace over the next 10 to 15 years, focusing on demographics, tenchnology and globalization.

Collective Bargaining and Labor Relations, Fourth Edition

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Collective Bargaining and Labor Relations, Fourth Edition
E. Edward Herman
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
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Book Description

This book develops a deep understanding of the theory and practice of collective bargaining and labor relations, providing students with the conceptual framework for grasping changes taking place in the field of labor relations and collective bargaining. The Fourth Edition has been significantly updated and revised—containing a number of totally new chapters and sections on the most relevant topics in the field today—yet it retains the rich institutional detail that puts current developments into perspective.

State of Working America 2006/07 (State of Working America)

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the hobo philosopher
Change Is Needed Now and Here's Why

State of Working America 2006/07 (State of Working America)
Lawrence Mishel , Jared Bernstein , and Sylvia Allegretto
Manufacturer: Cornell University Press
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Book Description

Praise for previous editions of The State of Working America "The State of Working America remains unrivaled as the most-trusted source for a comprehensive understanding of how working Americans and their families are faring in today's economy."-Robert B. Reich

"It is the inequality of wealth, argue the authors, rather than new technology (as some would have it), that is responsible for the failure of America's workplace to keep pace with the country's economic growth. The State of Working America is a well-written, soundly argued, and important reference book."-Library Journal

"If you want to know what happened to the economic well-being of the average American in the past decade or so, this is the book for you. It should be required reading for Americans of all political persuasions."-Richard Freeman, Harvard University "A truly comprehensive and useful book that provides a reality check on loose statements about U.S. labor markets. It should be cheered by all Americans who earn their living from work."-William Wolman, chief economist, CNBC's Business Week "The State of Working America provides very valuable factual and analytic material on the economic conditions of American workers. It is the very best source of information on this important subject."-Ray Marshall, University of Texas, former Secretary of Labor

"An indispensable work . . . on family income, wages, taxes, employment, and the distribution of wealth."-Simon Head, The New York Review of Books "No matter what political camp you're in, this is the single most valuable book I know of about the state of America, period. It is the most referenced, most influential resource book of its kind."-Jeff Madrick, author, The End of Affluence "This book is the single best yardstick for measuring whether or not our economic policies are doing enough to ensure that our economy can, once again, grow for everybody."-Richard A. Gephardt "The best place to review the latest developments in changes in the distribution of income and wealth."-Lester Thurow

The State of Working America, prepared biennially since 1988 by the Economic Policy Institute, includes a wide variety of data on family incomes, wages, taxes, unemployment, wealth, and poverty-data that enable the authors to closely examine the effect of the economy on the living standards of the American people.

Customer Reviews:

the hobo philosopher.......2007-06-27

This book is exactly what I wanted. I'm a part-time journalist writing for a small town newspaper and I like numbers. Nothing is better than a percentage or a statistic to support your story. This book has them all and an explanation to support their accuracy or inaccuracy. It is a great tool. It is a must for anyone who wants to know "The State of Working America" - which I do.

Change Is Needed Now and Here's Why.......2007-04-30

If you can wade your way through the statistics, this book is enlightening and edifying, often sad. The commentary and interpretation help clarify the wealth of information. It graphically illustrates that nothing has changed after all these years of hope and promises for change: the rich keep getting richer, the poor keep getting poorer, poverty is endemic to our tired, unimaginative economic system, etc., etc., etc.

This book caused me to re-read Kevin Phillips' book "The Politics of Rich and Poor," published in 1990. It provides statistical and anecdotal evidence of the negative effects of Reagan-omics on our social system, much as Bush-enomics has. I even went farther back and re-read Michael Harrington's "The Other America," the seminal, monumental book of its time in 1962 about poverty in America.

These books along with so many others make you ask, as we've asked so many times, "When will it ever change?" I guess making people aware of the problem, although it's readily apparent in everyday life, is the place to start. These books, representing 45 years of rhetoric, make you agonizingly aware that things have gone nowhere but down. So, read all of them.

Labor Relations in the Public Sector, Third Edition (PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC POLICY)

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Best Single Text Available

Labor Relations in the Public Sector, Third Edition (PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC POLICY)

Manufacturer: CRC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0824704207

Book Description

Summarizing the critical changes affecting labor relations in the global marketplace, this comprehensive text outlines problems and provides strategies for success in the dynamically evolving work environment. Blending description, analysis, and empirical research into a thorough overview of the field, the authors discuss court decisions and collective bargaining and labor relations at all levels of government. In addition to a compendium of research resources, this classroom-friendly edition includes more new case studies illustrating key examples. The third edition retains the successful features of previous editions and combines expertise from both academic and professional perspectives.

Customer Reviews:

Best Single Text Available.......2006-07-21

I teach collective bargaining & labor relations in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of New Hampshire. Kearney's book is the sole comprehensive text on public sector labor relations available at this time. Its thorough coverage includes the history of public sector labor relations, the ins & outs of collective bargaining, the impacts on budgets and personnel policies, and much more. I've used it as the primary text in a graduate-level course, supplemented by journal articles and case studies. Several students remarked that the book was detailed yet readable, as well as realistic (students often catch on when an author has never been a practitioner of the subject matter). I recommend this book for courses in public sector labor relations, and it would be useful in most Public Administration programs. A good complement to this text is Najita and Stern's Collective Bargaining in the Public Sector: The Experience of Eight States, a reader of case studies that illustrate most of the concepts described by Kearney.

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