Hillbilly Elegy: A Bestselling Memoir and American Drama Film

2016 Memoir

A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

J.D. Vance's bestselling 2016 memoir, "Hillbilly Elegy," explores the social isolation, poverty, and addiction that plague poor white communities.

The memoir recounts Vance's childhood in Appalachia, his mother's struggles with addiction, and his own decision to leave home and attend college.

2020 Drama Film

Directed by Ron Howard

In 2020, a film adaptation of "Hillbilly Elegy" was released, directed by Ron Howard and starring Amy Adams, Glenn Close, Gabriel Basso, and Haley Bennett.

The film fictionalizes Vance's memoir, focusing on the complex relationship between Vance and his mother.