Quart, Alissa

Examines the American obsession with self-reliance and how it has led to inequality, self-blame, and shifted the responsibility for survival onto the backs of ordinary people.

Examines the ways American teenagers "brand" themselves, taking on identities based on the clothes they wear and things they purchase, discussing such topics as teenage authors, cosmetic surgery, the race for "cool" colleges, and the differences between 1980s and 1990s teen movie themes.

Discusses the problem that families are having living in America with the limited-options economy, focusing on financial issues, living conditions, and more.

Examines the ways American teenagers "brand" themselves, taking on identities based on the clothes they wear and things they purchase, discussing such topics as teenage authors, cosmetic surgery, the race for "cool" colleges, and the differences between 1980s and 1990s teen movie themes.