The Glass Castle, written by Jeannette Walls, is a riveting memoir recounting the story and struggles of her impoverished family through her life. Despite the neglect of her parents, hardship she endured, and the ever-changing sorrows of life, Jeannette’s tone remains humble, humane, and wise throughout the novel.
Rex and Rose Walls lived minimal, sporadic, and carefree lives. They had four children, which they began raising in the mountains of the Southwest desert. Walls and her three siblings grew up without expectations. Therefore, they were taught by their own self-discoveries. Although this lifestyle was unusual, it was all they ever knew and they adopted wise knowledge and independence from a young age.
When they could no longer live off the land, the Walls family moved to West Virginia. Rex’s intellectual spark and excitement was dampened by his alcoholism, which he used as an escape. Between Rose’s neglect to accept responsibility for her children and Rex’s disappearances, the Walls children experienced unpredictability within their family. This caused them to take responsibility for themselves and their parents.
         Despite the neglect of her parents, Jeannette Walls gained valuable experiences that helped shape her positively. She became a contrast to her parents: a self-motivated individual with determination for her own success. However, this difference did not create animosity toward her parents, despite their chaotic and inappropriate behaviors. Her deep love and appreciation remains even after she triumphs over her troubled past.
         The way Walls depicts her story is compelling and genuine. Her descriptions and recollection on past experiences allow you to feel like you are experiencing life with her. You feel her sorrows, her appreciate, frustration, and triumph.  It is incredibly well written and I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend this novel.