The Glass Castle- Section 2

1.  Explain the realization that is taking shape between Lori and Jeannette as illustrated from pg. 67-70.  Specifically, what unwritten rule are they starting to question and why does it matter to the family as a whole?  How does it affect the kids' views on their family life as it moves into the second part of the book?

2.  Why does Rex tell Jeannette that she is his favorite of the kids?  Specifically, what reasons do Lori and Brian have for losing faith in their father and why does he make a point of making sure everyone knows he has a favorite?  What does he need in order to still be the great Rex Walls?

3.  As sad and run down as Battle Mountain is and as quickly as life seems to be spiraling downward, why is Jeannette sad to be leaving for Phoenix?  There are some obvious, surface level reasons and some implied reasons that should be starting to become more and more obvious based on their family dynamic and way of living.

4.  Explain Rex’s rant on pg. 104-105 and how it illustrates the overarching problem with how he approaches life.

5.   Why does Rex begin drinking again right before they leave Phoenix for West Virginia?  What does going to Welch represent to him?

6.  Rex is obviously intelligent and has the ability to do a lot of things that would make him quite employable.  Rose Mary can teach.  They also have ownership of the big adobe house in Phoenix and all of the possessions inside of it.  Despite all of these “positives” why can’t Rex and Rose Mary provide a stable, secure, “normal” life for their kids?  As a whole, what does Jeannette seem to think is missing from life for her parents?  Relate the quote from the end of pg. 61 to this philosophy and how it continues to evolve deeper into the book.