The Glass Castle: A Memoir

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Additional The Glass Castle: A Memoir Information

Later, when the money ran out, or the romance of the wandering life faded, the Walls retreated to the dismal West Virginia mining town -- and the family -- Rex Walls had done everything he could to escape. He drank. He stole the grocery money and disappeared for days. As the dysfunction of the family escalated, Jeannette and her brother and sisters had to fend for themselves, supporting one another as they weathered their parents' betrayals and, finally, found the resources and will to leave home.

What is so astonishing about Jeannette Walls is not just that she had the guts and tenacity and intelligence to get out, but that she describes her parents with such deep affection and generosity. Hers is a story of triumph against all odds, but also a tender, moving tale of unconditional love in a family that despite its profound flaws gave her the fiery determination to carve out a successful life on her own terms.

For two decades, Jeannette Walls hid her roots. Now she tells her own story. A regular contributor to MSNBC.com, she lives in New York and Long Island and is married to the writer John Taylor.

What Customers Say About The Glass Castle: A Memoir:

This is a terrible book. Why would anyone be interesting in reading about this awful family. It's exploitation at its worst.

My sister refered the book but I haven't read it as yet. It came in excellent condition

This novel was at times funny, usually disturbing, and always thought provoking. Amazing, horrifying, and absolutley captivating. The further I got the harder it became to put this book down. Amazing to see what some children live through and how sometimes they become wise and self sufficient beyond their years. One of the best books that I have read, and one that I won't forget.

I could hardly put it down. This is a story that can give hope to many in similar circumstances. Because the language in this book is raw and in-your-face, it may be too graphic for some readers. The Author Jeannette Wall is a gifted writer who knows how to give her characters heart and flesh. Reluctantly, due to the language, I've given this book a four-star rather than a five-star rating. I could see, hear and feel her pain and pride in the midst of a dysfunctional but fascinating family. The Glass Castle is masterfully written. One caution is worth noting.

I loved watching as she emerged into an intelligent and motivated young woman. I loved seeing her begin the personal healing process of accepting the things she could not change and the courage to change the things she could. I feel that it would have been an excellent book without it; however, some could argue that at least one of the characters could not have been accurately portrayed any other way.

I couldn't put this book down. The book was so well written that I felt I was there along with the writer in her struggle to make sense of what was going on around her. I found myself angry, sad, frustrated, puzzled and pulled into a world that I could not quite comprehend. I was forced to examine my own prejudices and my own family relationships.