Rivethead (58)

Rivethead
Ben Hamper

Ben Hamper works for GM in Flint. This is the story of life on the line. I have been aware of this book for many years.. Its seems like my (late) uncle read it and was talking about it. I also recall hearing an interview on the radio with him. A co-worker had to read it for a college class. It was recently listed as one of the 10 books you should read my Michigan authors.. so I added it to my reading list. Then I was visiting a friend and saw he had it so I borrowed it. I read it more because I felt I should, than because I thought I would enjoy it.. WOW, was I wrong.. I *really* enjoyed the book! I expected it to be a lot of rah, rah union stuff.. it was more about how he could not believe HOW much they were paying him... And when you are young and have a lot of money there is only 1 thing to do PARTY! Ben does a lot of drinking on and off the job.. they run scams, invent games, and do anything they can to beat the dreaded clock. In the end Ben has a nervous breakdown and in the end will not be able to work again...
It is an interesting story about a guy who never wanted to work at an auto plant.
I *highly* recommend this book!