Janesville

Financial Times and McKinsey Business Book of the Year Award Winner

Janesville by Amy Goldstein delves into the heart-wrenching narrative of what happens to a small American town in Wisconsin when its economic lifeline—a General Motors assembly plant—is abruptly shuttered. Set against the backdrop of the Great Recession, this insightful work captures not just the immediate economic shock, but the enduring and transformative struggle of the community as they grapple with their new reality.

Goldstein immerses readers in the lives of Janesville’s residents, portraying their psychological defeat and resilience. The story centres on the human struggle to adapt in a manufacturing town that suddenly finds itself part of a declining middle class. Through the eyes of autoworkers, educators, bankers, politicians, and job re-trainers, Janesville reveals the profound social and economic upheaval that follows the loss of jobs once deemed secure.

Amy Goldstein, a Pulitzer Prize–winning reporter, spent years meticulously researching the town, offering a narrative imbued with intelligence, compassion, and a deep understanding of the community dynamics. Her detailed reportage places readers at the intersection of personal and political, highlighting how individuals navigate the macroeconomic forces that shape their lives.

The book stands out for its sophisticated storytelling and analytical depth, with Goldstein weaving together personal stories that reflect larger national issues. As Jennifer Senior notes in The New York Times, “Moving and magnificently well-researched...Janesville joins a growing family of books about the evisceration of the working class in the United States. What sets it apart is the sophistication of its storytelling and analysis.” This distinction elevates the narrative, offering a nuanced portrait of resilience and the complexities of contemporary American life.

Tracy Kidder, Pulitzer Prize–winning author of The Soul of a New Machine, praises the book, stating, “Anyone tempted to generalise about the American working class ought to meet the people in Janesville. The reporting behind this book is extraordinary and the story—a stark, heartbreaking reminder that political ideologies have real consequences—is told with rare sympathy and insight.”

Janesville is more than a story about job loss; it is a profound examination of how a community can both fracture and come together in times of extreme adversity. Through Goldstein’s meticulous and empathetic portrayal, readers gain an invaluable perspective on the trials and triumphs of those striving to rebuild their lives and their town amidst economic and social challenges.