Book Review: The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls – A Raw and Powerful Memoir That Captivates Millions (with Audiobook)

1. About the Author – Jeannette Walls

Jeannette Walls is a renowned American journalist, novelist, and memoirist best known for her groundbreaking memoir The Glass Castle: A Memoir. Before becoming a full-time author, Walls worked for New York Magazine, MSNBC, and Esquire, where she was praised for her direct, evocative, and emotionally intelligent writing style.

Walls’ storytelling stands out for its raw honesty and refusal to sugar-coat difficult truths. Her ability to transform deeply personal and often painful experiences into powerful narratives has earned her acclaim from both readers and critics alike. Her work often explores themes of resilience, family dynamics, and personal transformation.

2. About the Narrator – Jeannette Walls

One of the most compelling aspects of the The Glass Castle audiobook is that it’s narrated by the author herself, Jeannette Walls. Her performance adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy that few narrators could match. Her warm, steady, and emotionally nuanced voice brings each moment of the memoir vividly to life.

Listeners have praised her natural pacing, clarity, and emotional delivery, which make the audiobook feel like a personal conversation. This rare combination of author and narrator makes the audiobook a unique and deeply engaging experience.

3. About the Book – The Glass Castle: A Memoir

The Glass Castle recounts Jeannette Walls’ turbulent childhood growing up in extreme poverty with eccentric, often neglectful parents. Despite the chaos and hardship, the memoir is ultimately an uplifting story of resilience, hope, and self-determination.

The book explores core themes such as family, survival, forgiveness, and the strength of the human spirit. Although it’s a memoir, Walls writes with the energy and detail of a novel, making it a compelling read for a wide audience.

• Average rating on Goodreads: 4.32/5 (based on over 1.29 million ratings)

• Audible rating: 4.6/5 (based on over 17,000 reviews)

• New York Times Bestseller: Over 260 weeks on the list

• Copies sold: Over 5 million worldwide

• Adaptation: Made into a feature film in 2017

4. Book Review – The Glass Castle

The Glass Castle is a stunning memoir that blends stark realism with heartfelt storytelling. It is one of the rare true stories that manage to be both disturbing and inspiring. Walls’ greatest strength lies in her character portrayals—her father, an alcoholic dreamer; her mother, an eccentric artist who refused to conform—are described with empathy and complexity.

The narrative unfolds chronologically, giving readers a full sense of Jeannette’s growth and struggle. Walls’ writing style is vivid and cinematic, drawing readers into the harsh yet colorful world of her childhood. Though some scenes can be emotionally intense, they serve to underscore the resilience of the human spirit.

This book is a powerful reminder of how people can rise above even the most difficult circumstances. As a review of this book, it deserves nothing less than five stars.

5. Audiobook Review – The Glass Castle

The audiobook version of The Glass Castle has been widely praised, particularly because Jeannette Walls narrates it herself. Her performance adds emotional depth and credibility, giving listeners a raw and honest insight into her experiences.

• Audible rating: 4.6/5 stars (with over 17,000 reviews)

• Many listeners describe her voice as “deeply moving,” “vulnerable yet strong,” and “perfectly matched to the story.”

Her delivery is engaging and heartfelt, making the audiobook feel more like a heartfelt confession than a performance. For listeners who enjoy audiobooks, this edition of The Glass Castle is among the most memorable and intimate.

6. Who Should Read This Book?

The Glass Castle appeals to a broad audience:

• Readers who enjoy memoirs, especially those centered on childhood and family

• Anyone seeking personal inspiration or stories of overcoming adversity

• Audiobook lovers who appreciate heartfelt performances

• Young adults and students looking for insight into complex family dynamics

• Social workers, educators, and psychologists interested in trauma and resilience

Whether in print or audio, this book offers lessons in courage, forgiveness, and the enduring power of hope.

7. Conclusion

The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls is a hauntingly beautiful, brutally honest memoir that stands the test of time. Its emotional depth, unforgettable characters, and powerful storytelling make it a must-read—and must-listen—for anyone who appreciates real-life stories of transformation.

With the audiobook narrated by the author herself, the experience becomes even more immersive and emotionally resonant. If you’re looking for a story that will move and inspire you, this is it.

Don’t miss this unforgettable memoir—read or listen and let it change the way you view childhood, family, and resilience.

8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook

You can listen to the The Glass Castle: A Memoir audiobook on popular platforms such as:

• Audible – High-quality narration and easy mobile access.

• Audiobooks.com – Offers a free trial and great streaming options.

Sign up for a membership to enjoy The Glass Castle anytime, anywhere—from your phone, tablet, or laptop.