The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

Summary

Jeannette Walls grew up with parents whose ideals and stubborn nonconformity were both their curse and their salvation. A tender, moving tale of unconditional love in a family that, despite its profound flaws, gave the author the fiery determination to carve out a successful life on her own terms. (Goodreads)

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Discussion topics

1. Which scenes were the most memorable to you?
   
2. Discuss the metaphor of a glass castle and what it signifies to Jeannette and her father.
3. Rex Walls often asked his children, "Have I ever let you down?" Why was this question so important to him and to his kids?
4. What character traits do you think that Jeannette inherited from her parents?
   
5. Despite everything, Jeannette Walls refuses to condemn her parents. Were you able to be equally nonjudgmental?
   

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