I never really understood the division in our country that political analysts said was between college graduates and non-graduates.  It seemed to be real, yet made no sense to me.  I know people on both sides of that divide and they did not seem all that different to me.

But there are many issues.  Several are discussed.  The cost of college is a big one and much of the book is about that.

Before World War 2, a college education was pretty much limited to the upper classes who could afford it.  After World War 2 higher education became much more common.  The GI Bill paid for the education of many returning soldiers. Government investment continued though the turbulent sixties and tuition was still affordable for many of the middle class.

I graduated from Rutgers in 1972 and believe my tuition was $400 per year.

Fast forward to today or any recent year.  Tuition may be closer to 30 thousand per year and living expenses many thousands more.  To make thing worse, there are often loans (not grants) to cover those hefty expenses.

So if you are from a family of modest means, your choices are skipping college and bypassing many job opportunities  or completing college and having more job opportunities but also having massive debt.  I over simplify a bit but that choice can be a source of resentment and anger.

So how did we get here?  College was once for the few, then became a good for many, and is now a source of resentment and political division.

Will Bunch’s well-researched and well written book examines that question in depth.  And discusses some possible solutions.  His journalistic skills serve him well in presenting what could be a rather dry recitation of facts as a fascinating story.

The book is scheduled for an August 2 publication.  I thank Netgalley for the chance to read it before publication.