Breaking Night

Liz Murray

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In Circulation

Liz Murray never really had a chance in life. Born to a drug-addicted father who was in and out of prison, and an equally dependent mother who was in and out of mental institutions, she seemed destined to become just another tragic statistic; another life wasted on the brutal streets of New York. By the age of 15, Liz found herself homeless with nowhere to turn but the tough streets, riding subways all night for a warm place to sleep and foraging through dumpsters for food.

But when her mother died of AIDS a year later, Liz's life changed for ever. With no education, with no chance at a job or a home, she realised that only the most astonishing of turnarounds could stop her heading all the way down the same path her parents took. And so she set her mind to overcoming what seemed like impossible odds - and in the process, achieved something extraordinary.

Told with astounding sincerity, Breaking Night is the breathtaking and inspirational story of how a young women, born into a world without hope, used every ounce of strength and determination to steer herself towards a brighter future. Beautifully written, it is a poignant, evocative and stirring portrait of struggle, desperation, forgiveness and survival.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Challenges of Homelessness: The book vividly portrays the challenges and hardships faced by Liz Murray and her family during their period of homelessness in New York City.

  2. Parental Struggles with Addiction: Murray's memoir delves into the impact of her parents' drug addiction on her upbringing and the family's overall well-being.

  3. Education as a Lifeline: Despite her difficult circumstances, Murray emphasizes the transformative power of education and how it served as a lifeline for her to escape the cycle of poverty.

  4. Resilience and Determination: Liz Murray's story is a testament to her resilience and determination to overcome adversity, pursuing a better life for herself through education.

  5. Relationship with Her Parents: The book explores Murray's complex and evolving relationship with her parents, emphasizing love and forgiveness despite the challenges they faced.

  6. Supportive Individuals and Mentors: Throughout her journey, Murray encounters individuals and mentors who provide support, guidance, and opportunities that contribute to her personal growth.

  7. Striving for Normalcy: The memoir highlights Murray's desire for a "normal" life, including a stable home, education, and a sense of belonging.

  8. Homeless Shelters and Survival: Murray provides insights into the harsh reality of living in homeless shelters and the strategies she employed for survival during this challenging period.

  9. Harvard University Achievement: The culmination of the memoir is Liz Murray's remarkable achievement of gaining admission to Harvard University, symbolizing the triumph of her perseverance and hard work.

  10. Inspiration for Others: "Breaking Night" serves as an inspirational story, encouraging others facing adversity to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles with determination.

Language English
ISBN-10 0099556294
ISBN-13 9780099556299
No of pages 421
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Arrow Books
Published Date 15 Sep 2011

About Author

Author : Liz Murray

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