The Glass Castle details the autobiographical story of Jeannette Walls and her family. Reminiscent of today’s recession, the family is constantly short on cash and food and must move around the country frequently in an attempt to re-settle. Though the family is totally dysfunctional, the memoir communicates itself without condemning either of Walls’ parents. Humor frequently imbues the work with a light-spirited tone while traveling from Welch, West Virginia to New York City.

Through a classic traveler’s tale, Jeannette has finally reconciled her difficult past with her present and by the memoir’s end, she no longer feels the need to hide behind lies or half-truths. The memoir liberates her and allows her to do what she enjoys most about writing; communicate with the world. 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.