Nickel and Dimed: On Not Getting By in America is a book written by Barbara Ehrenreich in 2001. It is a memoir of Ehrenreich's experiences as she tries to live on minimum wage in various cities across the United States. The book is a powerful and poignant examination of the struggles faced by low-wage workers in America, and it highlights the many ways in which the economic system is stacked against those who are struggling to make ends meet.
In the book, Ehrenreich takes on various low-wage jobs in different cities, including housekeeping, waitressing, and retail work. She finds that even working full-time, it is nearly impossible to make ends meet on minimum wage. She struggles to afford rent, food, and other basic necessities, and is often forced to choose between paying bills and buying groceries.
One of the most striking aspects of Ehrenreich's experiences is the way in which the low-wage economy is structured to exploit and oppress its workers. She finds that many employers take advantage of their workers' desperation by imposing arbitrary and onerous rules, and by paying wages that are far too low to sustain a decent standard of living. She also finds that the social safety net, which is supposed to provide a cushion for those who are struggling, is often inadequate and riddled with bureaucracy.
Another key theme in Nickel and Dimed is the way in which the low-wage economy disproportionately affects women and people of color. Ehrenreich finds that many of her co-workers are women and people of color who are struggling to make ends meet and support their families. She also finds that these workers are often subjected to discrimination and mistreatment, and that they have few options for advancement or escape from their low-wage jobs.
Overall, Nickel and Dimed is a powerful and eye-opening examination of the struggles faced by low-wage workers in America. It highlights the many ways in which the economic system is stacked against those who are struggling to make ends meet, and it illustrates the need for systemic change in order to create a more just and equitable society.
