Memoir: Growing Up

Introduction
"Growing Up" by Russell Baker is a captivating memoir released in 1982 that chronicles his individual journey from a modest childhood during the Great Depression to becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and author. The book tells Baker's experiences as he develops through the various phases of life and offers readers with an informative account of the battles and joys of growing up in America throughout the early-to-mid 20th century.

Early Life
Russell Baker was born in 1925 in Morrisonville, Virginia, a rural town where his family resided in poverty. His dad, Benjamin Baker, worked as a stonemason and his mom, Lucy Elizabeth Baker, a housewife, focusing on raising her children and keeping the household. The Great Depression seriously impacted the Baker family, and they were required to move several times in search of much better opportunities.

Disaster struck the household when Russell's father passed away unexpectedly, leaving them to take care of themselves. To make ends fulfill, his mother used up numerous jobs, while Russell started operating at a very young age to assist support the family. Regardless of their challenges, Baker's mother highly emphasized the value of education and encouraged her children to master school.

Teenage Years and World War II
Throughout his teenage years, Russell and his household settled in Baltimore, Maryland. In high school, Baker rapidly excelled academically, revealing a terrific talent for composing. He also began pursuing journalism, composing for the school newspaper. It was during this time that he became focused on his future and was identified to lead a better life than the one he had experienced so far.

The second world war introduced brand-new challenges and opportunities for Baker. He served in the United States Navy and was stationed in the Pacific, experiencing the cruelties and scaries of war firsthand. Upon his return, he used the GI Bill to attend college at Johns Hopkins University, where he studied English and continued refining his writing and journalistic skills.

Profession in Journalism
After completing university, Baker secured a job with The Baltimore Sun, beginning his remarkable profession in journalism. He would later join the Washington bureau of The New York Times and report on White House advancements, Congress, and other political occasions. Baker's composing style was distinct, as he combined both humor and thoughtful analysis in his reporting, a style that resonated with readers.

As Baker's profession progressed, he transitioned to a writer function, writing for The New York Times' op-ed page. His column, "Observer", showcased his eager funny bone, wit, and satirical take on present events and American life. This won him a large following of readers, and ultimately, the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1979.

Personal Life and Reflecting on the Past
Regardless of his successful profession, Baker never forgot his humble beginnings, and "Growing Up" works as a reflection on his experiences throughout childhood, teenage years, and their adult years. He credits his mom's undeviating commitment and persistence in the face of misfortune as the driving force behind his own determination and success.

Baker's narrative is an effective illustration of the battles Americans dealt with during the Great Depression and the lengths one household went through to overcome them. His story is among determination, resilience, and finding light in the darkest of times.

Conclusion
Russell Baker's "Growing Up" is an engaging narrative that narrates the life of an individual who dealt with tremendous challenges from a young age however handled to increase above them and attain great success. Baker's sincere and expressive writing transports readers back in time, immersing them in his experiences and feelings. The book is a testament to the power of the human spirit, the importance of determination, and the belief that a person can accomplishment over adversity to meet their dreams. In general, "Growing Up" is an inspirational and satisfying read that will resonate with readers for generations to come.