Waiting on Retirement

"Mary Gatta provides an important look at how the current—and future—retirement crisis affects some of the country's most vulnerable workers. Her research should inspire academics, activists, and policy makers to address the large segment of the workforce that is unable to sustain themselves at the end of their working years."—Deborah Harris, Texas State University
"Mary Gatta's new book is a timely and necessary addition to the literature on restaurant workers. A career for millions of Americans, the industry does not ensure the economic security of its workforce. Gatta gives voice to the people who have devoted their lives to restaurant work, providing a much-needed warning call for the country and addressing the steps we must take to ensure a better future."—Teófilo Reyes, UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy and Restaurant Opportunities Centers United
"An intimate account of the startling impacts of the restaurant industry's precarious conditions. Women in particular have been subject to a wage structure that creates economic volatility, perpetuates harassment, and offers a blurry image of their future. In this groundbreaking historical moment, Mary Gatta provides a timely call to action, stressing that we need one fair wage and long-term economic security."—Saru Jayaraman, author of Forked: A New Standard for American Dining
"Sociologist Gatta has provided a compassionate, clearly written, and jargon-free account of the difficult situation of American low-wage restaurant workers who do not retire, because they cannot afford to...She displays their nuanced situation without condescension or blame. Recommended."—R. R. Shield, CHOICE