This review of Nickel and Dimed is written by Joni Scott, the director of 'Pro Choice League' which offers 'Women their Fundamental Rights to Abortion and Privacy.' Therefore, he clearly has a liberal feminist viewpoint.
Scott recognises that although Barbara Ehrenreich attempted to fit the mould of the average low-paid worker, she unfortunately does not fit the criteria. Scott states, 'Many don't have the luxury of start-up money, car, white skin, good health, the ability to speak English, or three years of college to help her secure employment.' Therefore her experiment is not completely reliable, as Ehrenreich had the benefits that others employees fail to obtain. For instance, she is more likely to secure employment due to her skin colour, as she states 'I chose Maine for its whiteness.' (Page 51) However, Ehrenreich highlights such issues to the reader in order to emphasise that the reality is even more disturbing than her account is able to inform us.
On the other hand, Scott praises Ehrenreich as she obtains 'respect for those enduring the daily maelstrom of low-wage life.' For example, when her fellow worker Holly injures herself, Ehrenreich states '"I'm not working if you don't get help."' (Page 111) However, it could be argued that Ehrenreich was instead threatening to strike in order to express her own principles and anger towards the injustice being exercised towards her fellow employees. Either way, she clearly shows a concern for the welfare of these unfortunate individuals and this allows her to criticise and expose the errors of American businesses.
Ehrenreich's attitude towards her work is praised, as she 'even feeds residents in an Alzheimer ward without complaint.' She therefore is fully committed to performing her jobs well, even though she is only working temporarily. However, her temporary placements may explain her calm persona. She will never be able to fully experience the stress and discontentment of a low-wage worker unless she becomes one.
Scott realises the importance of the experiment, because Ehrenreich 'examines how corporations often strip employees of their dignity.' An example of this is the drug testing, as Ehrenreich states, 'you have to be willing to squat down and pee in front of a health worker.' (Page 14) These tests show that employees are treated as criminals, even though they are only trying to earn a living. Those in managerial positions can impose such practices because they have the authority. But their purposes are also understandable, as they will prevent the use of drugs which will benefit both the employer and the employee.
Mostly, Ehrenreich 'delivers a profoundly poignant description of people.' For instance she describes her co-worker George as 'a perfect straight arrow-crew-cut, hardworking, and hungry for eye contact.' Although individual characteristics of low-paid workers may seem irrelevant, they offer deeper insight. Most of the people Ehrenreich works with are willing to work hard, therefore the reader begins to question why they are not being paid enough money for their work. Furthermore, their desire to work hard shows that they have not given up hope. They are attempting to achieve, perhaps even attempting to achieve the American dream, despite the difficult circumstances they are in.
Scott concludes by stating 'I believe this book should be required reading for corporate executives and politicians.' Overall the book is highly useful in exposing the issues confronting low-wage workers in America. Although Ehrenreich fails to fully commit to her role economically, she fully commits to her work mentally and physically, therefore her account is reliable and worthwhile in promoting action against inequality.
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