Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture

by Ellen Ruppel Shell
Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Investigative Journalism
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  • ID: 10389
  • Added: 2026-01-24
  • Updated: 2026-01-24
  • ISBN: 9781101135471
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2009-07-02
  • Reviews: 3

Cheap delves into the transformative impact of America's relentless pursuit of low prices, revealing how this fixation has led to a culture of excess consumerism. The book explores the shift from valuing quality and durability to prioritizing quantity, highlighting the environmental, economic, and social consequences of this trend. /n/n Author Ellen Ruppel Shell investigates the forces behind this phenomenon, from the closure of manufacturing plants to the proliferation of big-box stores, and argues that the true cost of cheap is far higher than we realize. This eye-opening exploration challenges readers to reconsider their shopping habits and the broader implications of our bargain-driven society.

Reviews
The Storygraph · alassel · 2026-01-24
engaging 4.00

The book offers compelling insights and commentary on the discount industry, making it more engaging than expected. It's a quick read that provides valuable perspectives on the topic.

The reviewer found the book to be more engaging and insightful than they initially anticipated. They appreciated the depth of information and the way it was presented, making complex topics accessible. The book's ability to hold their interest is a testament to its engaging writing style. They also mention that the book provides a fresh perspective on the discount culture, which is both informative and thought-provoking. Overall, it's a quick read that leaves a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    I found the information and commentary more compelling than I expected.

    The book went through in just two sittings, which is a testament to its engaging nature.

    It provides a fresh perspective on the discount culture that is both informative and thought-provoking.

Nate's Shivar · 2023-09-18
insightful 4.00

The book argues that the pursuit of cheapness leads to numerous negative consequences, both economically and socially. It's a well-researched and thought-provoking exploration of the discount culture.

The reviewer highlights how the book effectively argues that the quest for cheap products has far-reaching negative impacts. They appreciate the thorough research and the way the book presents its arguments, making it a compelling read. The discussion on the social and economic consequences of discount culture is particularly insightful. The book is seen as a valuable contribution to the understanding of the true costs of cheapness. Overall, it's a thought-provoking exploration that challenges our assumptions about the value of low prices.

Quick quotes

    The book argues that cheap stuff leads to many negative consequences.

    It's a well-researched and thought-provoking exploration of the discount culture.

    The discussion on the social and economic consequences is particularly insightful.

The New York Times · 2009-07-16
thought-provoking 4.00

The book challenges the notion of cheapness, revealing the hidden costs in economic, political, and psychological terms. It's a brisk read that makes a compelling case against the discount culture.

The reviewer highlights how the book debunks the idea that anything is truly cheap, especially when considering the broader impacts. They appreciate the book's ability to make complex economic concepts accessible and engaging. The discussion on the psychological effects of discount culture is particularly noteworthy, as it reveals how our obsession with low prices affects our values and behaviors. Overall, the book is seen as a thought-provoking exploration of a pervasive cultural phenomenon.

Quick quotes

    Despite what's jotted down on the restaurant check, there's no such thing as cheap shrimp.

    Shell makes clear that the true cost of discount culture is far more than we realize.

    The book is a brisk, engaging read that challenges our assumptions about the value of cheapness.

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