The League of Invisible Men: Growing Up Rural and the Search for Belonging

Growing Up Rural and League of Invisible Men

by Bruce Lockwood

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	204 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Growing up in rural America can be a lonely experience. There are often few opportunities to meet new people and make friends, and the isolation can be overwhelming. In his memoir, The League of Invisible Men, Alex Marzano-Lesnevich explores the challenges and rewards of growing up in rural America. He writes about the sense of community that can be found in small towns, and the importance of finding a place where you belong.

The Challenges of Growing Up Rural

Marzano-Lesnevich grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania. He was the only child of Italian immigrants, and he felt like an outsider from a young age. He was bullied by his classmates, and he had few friends. He longed for a place where he could belong, but he didn't know where to find it.

The isolation that Marzano-Lesnevich felt is common among rural youth. A study by the National Rural Health Association found that rural youth are more likely to experience loneliness, depression, and anxiety than their urban counterparts. They are also more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and suicide.

The Importance of Community

Despite the challenges of growing up rural, Marzano-Lesnevich also found a sense of community in his small town. He writes about the importance of the local church, the volunteer fire department, and the school. These institutions provided him with a sense of belonging and purpose. They also gave him the opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

The sense of community that Marzano-Lesnevich found in his small town is essential for rural youth. Studies have shown that youth who feel connected to their community are more likely to be successful in school, have healthy relationships, and avoid risky behaviors.

Finding Belonging

Marzano-Lesnevich's memoir is a powerful and moving story about the challenges and rewards of growing up rural. He writes about the sense of community that can be found in small towns, and the importance of finding a place where you belong. The League of Invisible Men is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.

About the Author

Alex Marzano-Lesnevich is an American writer and professor. He is the author of three books, including The League of Invisible Men. He has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. He is a professor of English at Denison University.

Growing Up Rural and League of Invisible Men

by Bruce Lockwood

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1647 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	204 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE