Characters
Who teaches Jeannette to swim by repeatedly letting her sink or swim?
Rex Walls
What was Jeannette cooking when she caught on fire at age three?
Hot dogs
What symbolic structure represents Rex’s dreams and the family’s hope for a better future?
The Glass Castle
In what city does the opening scene take place, when Jeannette sees her mother digging in the trash?
New York City
The Walls family’s constant moving represents what major theme?
Instability
Which parent believes children learn best through independence, not rules?
Rose Mary Walls
Why is Jeannette taken to the hospital early in the book?
To treat her severe burns
What “gift” from her father comforts Jeannette and symbolizes his promises?
A star
Where do most of Jeannette’s early childhood memories take place?
The Southwest/desert
Jeannette cooking at age three is an example of which theme?
Independence
Which sibling is more cautious and responsible, often balancing Jeannette’s impulsiveness?
Lori
What do the Walls children call it when the family suddenly leaves a place to avoid trouble?
“The skedaddle”
Who says, “You learn from living, not school”?
Rose Mary
What word do the Walls kids use to describe their frequent moving around?
Nomads
Rex and Rose Mary’s parenting styles highlight which theme?
Family dysfunction / resilience
Which sibling often reacts emotionally and gets into fights?
Brian
After the fire, what issue causes an argument between Jeannette’s parents?
Jeannette cooking alone / being too independent
What theme do the repeated fire incidents in Jeannette’s childhood symbolize?
Danger, chaos, or survival
What two basic utilities are often missing from the Walls’ homes?
Electricity and running water
Jeannette’s complicated relationship with her father relates to what theme?
Love and betrayal / trust and disappointment
Which parent is known for big dreams, inventions, and promises of the Glass Castle?
Rex Walls
Why does Jeannette fall out of the family car during one move?
The car door was unlocked or had a faulty latch
Jeannette says her dad can “make a city light up.” What trait does this describe?
His charm or storytelling ability
What type of environment shapes Jeannette’s early sense of freedom and danger?
The desert
The contrast between adventure and danger in Jeannette’s memories reflects what theme?
Fantasy vs. reality