From Homelessness to Harvard: The Inspiring Journey in Liz Murray’s 'Breaking Night'

Chapter 1:Summary of Breaking Night Book

"Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My
Journey from Homeless to Harvard" is a memoir written by Liz
Murray, which chronicles her life as a young woman growing up in
a dysfunctional family and her remarkable journey from
homelessness to Harvard University.


Liz was born to drug-addicted parents who spent most of their
money on their addiction, neglecting the basic needs of Liz and
her sister. The environment was unstable and often abusive. After
her mother died of AIDS and her father moved into a homeless
shelter, Liz found herself on the streets at the age of 15.
Despite her dire circumstances, she became determined to change
her life.


Breaking night, a term Liz uses to describe staying up through
the night until sunrise, symbolizes her resilience and
determination to escape her past. Liz began attending high school
regularly, excelling academically, and eventually earned a
scholarship to Harvard University.


Her story is one of overcoming extreme adversity through sheer
determination and the kindness of others who helped her along the
way. Liz Murray's memoir is not only a tale of personal triumph
but also a testament to the transformative power of ambition and
the human spirit.
Chapter 2:the theme of Breaking Night Book

"Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My
Journey from Homeless to Harvard" is a memoir by Liz Murray,
published in 2010. The book details Murray's life from her
childhood to her admission to Harvard University, highlighting
her struggles and resilience. Here are some key points about the
plot, character development, and themes:


### Key Plot Points


1. **Childhood in the Bronx**: Liz Murray describes her early
years living in poverty with her drug-addicted parents. Both her
mother and father struggle with drug addiction, which profoundly
impacts Liz's upbringing.


2. **Family Challenges**: Liz’s family life is unstable and
chaotic. Her mother is diagnosed with HIV and eventually dies of
AIDS, which is a significant turning point in Liz's life.


3. **Homelessness**: After her mother's death, her family
situation worsens, and Liz ends up homeless. She has to fend for
herself on the streets of New York, occasionally staying with
friends.


4. **Decision to Change**: Motivated by her challenging
circumstances and the realization that she wants more from life,
Liz decides to return to high school. Despite starting late, she
manages to excel academically.


5. **Educational Success**: Liz’s determination leads her to
finish high school in just two years. She earns a scholarship
through the New York Times Scholarship for needy students, which
paves the way for her to attend Harvard University.


### Character Development


- **Resilience and Determination**: As the narrative progresses,
Liz transitions from a helpless child to a determined and
resilient young adult. Her resolve to change her circumstances,
despite the odds, is a central part of her character arc.


- **Self-Reliance**: Facing life on the streets, Liz learns to
depend on herself. This self-reliance is both a survival
mechanism and a pivotal growth in her character.


- **Forgiveness and Understanding**: Liz’s journey also involves
her grappling with feelings towards her parents, particularly how
she manages to find a space for forgiveness and understanding
despite the hardships they caused.


### Thematic Ideas


- **Impact of Addiction**: The book provides a stark look at how
addiction can devastate families and the lives of children caught
in its wake.


- **Power of Education**: Liz views education as a transformative
tool, a theme that...