The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
memoir, nonfiction
March 1, 2005
Scribner Kindle Edition
353 pages
10/3/19-10/6/19
Library loan

The proverb “Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones” comes to mind after reading this memoir. I’m sure it’s partly due to the book title The Glass Castle which has no direct correlation to this proverb. In summation, Jeannette Walls shares her memories growing up with unconventional parents. There are many moments when parts of this story reads like fiction because situations seem so unbelievable. I will not elaborate to avoid any spoilers.

Rex and Rose Mary Walls have four children: Laurie, Jeannette, Brian and Maureen. They chose to raise their children with unorthodox philosophies moving like nomads sleeping in their car or camping out. There are many nonconformists who thrive on the excitement of rebel rousing for their eccentric ideals.

The Wells family didn’t settle in one place for too long as Rex Walls was an alcoholic who couldn’t keep a job. Rose Mary Walls acquiesces with her husband’s dereliction of parental supervision and support. She fantasizes about a life as an artist and writer while rationalizing decisions which are counterintuitive to developing a successful career. She is however qualified to work as a teacher which she does on occasion when Rex steals their food money.

The parents with all their faults manage to prioritize their children’s education. They always manage to spend time in libraries and reading. They are intelligent people who share their knowledge of physics and geology when they aren’t in school. The kids manage to succeed in escaping their vagrant surroundings in hopes of a better life.

Jeanette Walls works hard to achieve an education and career never using her upbringing as a crutch but rather a motivator. After hiding her unpleasant childhood for many years she is encouraged to share her story. She explains the love and dedication she felt from her parents in spite of all their erratic decisions.



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