Essays on Nickel and Dimed

In Nickel and Dimed, Barbara Ehrenreich sets out to see how far she can get in America working low-wage jobs. She takes on various jobs in different parts of the country, working as a waitress, hotel maid, house cleaner, nursing home aide, and Wal-Mart sales associate.
Ehrenreich finds that it is very difficult to make ends meet on a minimum wage salary. She often has to work long hours just to earn enough money to pay for basic necessities like food and shelter. She also finds that many of her co-workers are struggling with the same issues.
Despite the challenges, Ehrenreich does find some moments of hope and happiness in her journey. She meets some kind and helpful people along the way, and she is able to help others in her own small way. In the end, Ehrenreich’s experience provides a unique and eye-opening look at the lives of those who work in low-wage jobs in America.