The Glass Castle

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How did your view of the parents evolve as you read the book? Which scenes impacted your view of them the most?
• What does The Glass Castle title represent, and how does it reflect significant themes in the memoir? 
• Have you read any other memoirs that remind you of this one? How do they compare?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• What is the power of a retrospective view of childhood? If you were to write about your childhood now, how would your view differ from when you were young?
• What do you think of Rose Mary's claim that she values freedom above all? Is this an admirable trait for a mother?
• Why do you think Walls wrote about her family so honestly and transparently? What are the risks of exposing oneself this way? Would you ever do so/
• Reflect on the novel’s conclusion and Walls making peace with her past. What is the value of reconciling with our pasts in dealing with trauma?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.