The political phenomenon of "Hillbilly Elegy": From bestselling book to vice presidential candidate

American voters were surprised last Monday by the news that Senator JD Vance had been selected by Donald Trump as a candidate for Vice President of the United States. However, what has truly captured the public's attention is not just the selection itself, but the impact that Vance's memoir has had on this new political stage. "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis" was published in 2016 and tells the story of Vance's upbringing in the Appalachian region of Ohio. The book offers a deep insight into the lives of the poor living in rural areas, which has generated both praise and criticism since its release. Vance's appointment as Trump's running mate has reignited interest in his work, turning it into a political phenomenon leading up to the 2024 presidential elections. The senator's Republican followers have been purchasing the book in large quantities and have praised its film adaptation, considering it an authentic reflection of rural reality. However, not everyone agrees with Vance's portrayal in his work. Some critics argue that it shows a lack of understanding of the true dynamics of the Appalachian region, while others defend it as an honest and poignant portrayal of life in these communities. The impact of Vance's book has even reached online platforms, such as Goodreads, where reviews have been temporarily blocked due to a possible "review bombing" attempt. This practice, increasingly common in the internet age, seeks to discredit a product or person through reviews unrelated to its original content. In addition to online criticism of the book and its film adaptation, platforms like Letterboxd have also seen an increase in negative reviews of the movie. Despite this, both the book and the film have climbed the sales and popularity charts, demonstrating the impact they have had on public opinion. Vance's journey, from bestselling author to Vice Presidential candidate, reflects how a literary work can influence a person's political career. "Hillbilly Elegy" has not only propelled Vance into the national arena, but has also sparked a debate on the representation of rural communities in today's society. At a time when politics and popular culture are more intertwined than ever, JD Vance's story and his book serve as an example of how personal narratives can impact the political sphere and the perception of a particular region. The controversy and popularity surrounding "Hillbilly Elegy" continue to fuel public interest and mark a milestone in the career of this young Republican politician.