Includes bibliographical references.

The missing class -- Whose neighborhood is this anyway? -- The American dream, in monthly installments -- The sacrificed generation -- In sickness and in health -- Romance without finance is a nuisance -- On the edge : falling out of the missing class -- Missing class mobility.

This book gives voice to the 57 million Americans--including 21 percent of the nation's children--who are sandwiched between poor and middle class. While government programs help the needy and politicians woo the more fortunate, the "Missing Class" is largely invisible and ignored. Through the experiences of nine families, sociologists Newman and Chen trace the unique problems faced by individuals in this large and growing demographic--the "near poor"--who have transformed their lives through hard work and determination. Newman and Chen explain where these families came from, how they've struggled to make a decent living, and why they're stuck without a safety net.--From publisher description.