marcelabrina's review against another edition
3.0
Coming from a not-too-privileged background myself, a lot of the actions in this memoir were familiar and unfortunate, and plenty of them made me angry. I found myself thinking these people (the parents) should be sterilized and if that sounds harsh, it's because it is. The memoir itself is well written and engrossing, but I got tired of coming home angry (listening to it in the car), and both remembering and predicting several of the actions of the individuals involved. It's worth reading and forming your own opinion, but I wouldn't recommend it for parents who actually care about their children.
27chickpeas's review against another edition
4.0
It was a great book with compelling storytelling. My only qualm is I was confusing the plots between this one, Educated, and Where the Crawdad Sings. But that’s not really the author’s fault. Definitely recommend to anyone who is interested in memoirs!
woohehe's review against another edition
4.0
This was an absolutely fascinating look at Walls's childhood. She was able to talk about her family's struggles through a lens of understanding as an adult that still expressed her frustrations as a child. Her story provides insight into lives of people who choose to live differently that mainstream society and are subsequently rejected, as well as the burdens their choices place on those around them.
ash2015's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
sad
fast-paced
5.0
leasummer's review against another edition
4.0
This book was not what I expected. I will admit I put off reading it, partially because the library didn't have it in and partially because I just didn't want to read it. But the reading club girls assured me it was excellent. It was very hard to get past the horridness (a word?) of the childhood. I am still pissed off at her parents for it. It certainly makes one appreciate their own eccentric parents for at least not being like that. The [b:saving grace|130916|The Saving Graces A Novel|Patricia Gaffney|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1171995451s/130916.jpg|126092] for the book is that Walls is a beautiful author. She made things come to life and made you feel as though you were close enough to being there without losing your mind. I hope to see more books written by her, she is an asset to the author word, which is not often said these days.
ashleykwbooks's review against another edition
5.0
I think it takes great strength to write about your own life. To lay yourself bare and let everyone see not only what you lived through but your deepest thoughts and secrets during those times.
Jeannette Walls tells the story of her unusual upbringing in a beautiful voice that keeps you captivated. Knowing what those kids survived it’s no wonder they grew up to be so strong.
Jeannette Walls tells the story of her unusual upbringing in a beautiful voice that keeps you captivated. Knowing what those kids survived it’s no wonder they grew up to be so strong.