Book Reviews
“I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt” Book Review
Recently, my wife reminded me about the free app Libby, which offers ebooks and audiobooks from your local library. While browsing, I came across the book I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt: Everything I Wish I Never Had to Learn About Money by Madeline Pendleton. Admittedly, the cover including Pendleton’s blue bangs and goth punk accessories helped to grab my attention — and, although the cliche goes that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, in this case, it worked out for me.
As the cover notes, Pendleton is the founder and CEO of the vintage clothing brand Tunnel Vision. What makes this small business a bit different from the norm, though, is that Pendleton pays herself and all of her employees the exact same salary (while also maintaining a four day work week and unlimited PTO). If you’re wondering why she does that, don’t worry, you’ll get answers… in time.
Before I get into the book itself, I was surprised to find that the recently-released paperback edition not only has a completely different cover from the one I saw on Libby but also a subtitle. In this case, after the proper title, the book is simply labeled “a memoir.” While I personally love the original subtitle, I can see why they made the switch, as I Survived Capitalism… is not your typical “how to” money book.
I Survived Capitalism… starts off with a tragic story before rewinding the clock and taking us through Pendleton’s life growing up in Fresno, California. If you’re not familiar with the Central Valley city, the gist is that it’s not as glamorous as those who aren’t from the Golden State might assume. Moreover, as she explains, there’s a clear class divide in the area — and she was on the wrong side of that.
In subsequent chapters, we follow Pendleton through her often rocky adolescence, through her young adult years and, finally, into her entrepreneurial endeavor. But, while there are plenty of stories that might not be directly tied to finance, these tales are told through the lens of money, including its role in our lives and the world. You also get a glimpse into how her upbringing and punk rock ethos would and have informed her view of the American dream.
Even though I said this isn’t a financial “how to” book, at the end of each chapter, readers are provided with a Capitalism Survival Skill usually tied to the theme of the preceding text — and many of which literally start with the words “how to.” Some example lessons include how to build credit, how to rent an apartment or house, how to buy a house, how to get a job, navigating college, negotiating pay, and more. On top of that, if you’re savvy, you’ll surely pick up on a few other money tips along the way.
Although Pendleton’s life and upbringing are very different, I found myself relating to her much more than you might expect. For one, we are the same age and both have a love for punk rock (although I suspect I fall on the poppier side of the fast music spectrum). Fast forwarding to more recent events, it seems both of us have also found value in working with a mortgage broker for homebuying. That said, given our differences, I Survived Capitalism… also opened my eyes in a few ways. Among them was her chapter on hidden homelessness. On a happier note, one of my favorite quotes from the book was where she mentions that current you is living at least part of what past you dreamed of — how motivating is that?
As a personal finance blogger, another chapter I want to shout out is one titled “If You’ve Ever Read Rich Dad, Poor Dad, You May Be Entitled to Financial Compensation.” In this section, she discusses going down a rabbit hole of financial podcasts and books, grouping the type of advice into different factions. I thought her analysis here was spot on. And, like Pendleton, I’m not sure I fit into any single line of thinking either.
All in all, I really enjoyed I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt. Even if it’s not exactly happy material at times, I was fascinated by Pendelton’s storytelling and love her writing style (her audiobook narration was also stellar and further highlighted her personality). As for the message of the book, I think I basically agree with someone she quotes near the end who said something to the effect of, “I still don’t hate capitalism, but I totally get why you do.” Besides, at the very least, I think we can all admit that there are things that our society could do better to support each other and help those who are struggling — just like how, if someone falls down in the mosh pit, you pick them back up.
If you’re looking for deep dive on American economics or detailed instructions on investing, this isn’t the book for you. Instead, while there are nuggets of financial insight to be gleaned from I Survived Capitalism…, there’s much more to be learned just by hearing from someone who likely has a different experience and world view than you. Overall, I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt: Everything I Wish I Never Had to Learn About Money by Madeline Pendleton will make you laugh, cringe, empathize, and — most of all — think. For all of those reason, it’s one I’d highly recommend to nearly any reader.
“I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt”
“I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt” is a Money Memoir with a Unique POV
5
Formats
Paperback, hardcover, audiobook, Kindle
Pages
336 (paperback edition)
“I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt: Everything I Wish I Never Had to Learn About Money” by Madeline Pendleton is a memoir that highlights the author’s youth in Fresno, California, the financial strugles of her young adulthood, and the reasons why her small business pays everyone (including her) the same wage. Although it’s not a “how to” money guide, each chapter offers a short section delivering tips related to the topics at hand. Plus, those who pay close attention to Pendleton’s stories will surely find even more insights among the witty and sometimes heartbreaking anecdotes.
Pros
- An intriguing and entertaining memoir told through the lens of money
- Each chapter features a “Capitalism survival skill”
Cons
- Not a regular “how to” financial guide
Author
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