Book Review: “Evicted” by Matthew Desmond
Evicted, written by Matthew Desmond, is a powerful and eye-opening book that delves into the lives of several families living in poverty in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Through their stories, Desmond paints a vivid picture of the devastating effects of eviction on individuals and communities.
The book follows the struggles of several low-income families as they try to find and keep housing in a city where the cost of living is high and the availability of affordable housing is limited. Desmond does an excellent job of humanizing the characters and showing the reader the daily struggles they face, from dealing with landlords who are more interested in making a profit than providing safe and decent housing, to navigating the complex and often confusing legal system.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the way Desmond illustrates the ripple effect of eviction on individuals and communities. He shows how eviction can lead to job loss, poor health, and increased crime, and how it can perpetuate the cycle of poverty. The book also highlights the ways in which the legal system often works against the interests of low-income tenants, and how landlords can take advantage of this to evict tenants with little recourse.
The book also shines a light on the role of landlords in the eviction crisis. Desmond illustrates how landlords can be ruthless and profit-driven, while tenants are left to suffer. He also shows how landlords can be indifferent to their tenants’ struggles and can even evict them without good reason.
One of the most powerful aspects of the book is the way it portrays the moral dilemma that landlords face when they are in the business of renting out their property, and how they can balance the need to make a profit with the needs of their tenants. The book highlights that landlords are not the only ones who are affected by the eviction crisis, and they need to be mindful of the impact their actions have on tenants, communities and the society as a whole.
In conclusion, Evicted is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the housing crisis and the human impact of eviction. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the struggles of low-income tenants and the role of landlords in the housing crisis.
Advice to new landlords: As a new landlord, it’s important to remember that you are not just in the business of making a profit, but you are also responsible for providing safe and decent housing for your tenants. It’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations governing rental properties in your area, and to be fair and respectful to your tenants. Be mindful of the impact your actions have on your tenants, communities and the society as a whole. It’s also important to be proactive in addressing any issues that may arise with your properties, and to be responsive to your tenants’ needs and concerns. Be prepared for the unexpected and have a plan in place for handling difficult situations. Above all, remember that your tenants are people, with families and lives of their own, and treat them accordingly.
J. Norman
Chicago Landlord Observer
