This volume develops an understanding of literacy and illiteracy through the engaging life stories of 12 adults from diverse backgrounds living in the United States. In the process of coming to know these adults, we learn that adults with limited literacy skills work hard and long, make limited use of public resources, can use technology when shown, and have pride and self-respect. In addition to all of the scientific information and policy implications yielded by this research study, this is foremost a compelling story of human struggle and survival. Readers will find themselves caring about these adults - feeling angry about their underemployment and their pain, and excited about their triumphs.