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The I Index

The Debt Trap: How Student Loans Became a National Catastrophe

Next in the queue

61

/100

I Index Overall Rating

Readers

75/100

Critics

17/100

Scholars

89/100

Author:

Josh Mitchell

Publisher:

Simon & Schuster

Date:

August 3, 2021

Wall Street Journal reporter Josh Mitchell tells the untold story of the scandals, scams, predatory actors, and government malpractice that have created the behemoth of student loan debt that one of its original architects called a 'monster.'

What The Reviewers Say

Robin Kaiser-Schatzlein,
The New York Times Book Review
... meant to be a work of history even if the historical scenes can run a little thin. In any case, the book is necessary reading for any politician or activist who wants to change the way we make college education available to all, without tripping into the sinkholes of previous generations..
Daniel Akst,
The Wall Street Journal
The story [Mitchell] tells is so infuriating that it could induce apoplexy in a Zen monk. Yet it is also a characteristically American story, in which democratic ideals, political expedience, concerns over national security, naked greed and tender optimism have blighted the lives of millions.
Jennifer Adams,
Booklist
The book is sure to garner attention, as well as make readers take a close look at the cost of higher education. Parents, students, and educators will find it enthralling and possibly be moved to push for industry reforms..

Kirkus
Thoroughgoing.