I have read numerous different books in my Contemporary Literature class; I have chosen to compare and contrast The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. Ironically, they both have meanings that are fairly relatable for anyone; we are all impressionable as children however our innocence is often stripped away by life’s challenges. The two contemporary literature books I chose, both show and help to explain how our life experiences influence who we grow up to be. Jeannette Walls wrote The Glass Castle, it is the story of her life growing up in a somewhat dysfunctional yet loving family. Consequently, she uses vivid details and language to help the reader to really feel and understand what …show more content…
Despite her father’s alcoholism her parent’s try to do the best they can by their kids. Incidentally, her father, Rex, is intelligent and hardworking when sober while her mother, Rose, is somewhat of a free spirit however both had a stubborn sense of pride. “I’ve got a houseful of kids and a husband who soaks up booze like a sponge,” Mom said. “Making ends meet is harder than you think” (Walls 197). Moreover, Jeannette recalls pleading with her mother to leave her father so they could go on welfare and at least have food to eat; her mother refused saying that the stigma of welfare would follow them the rest of their life. Her mother’s statement may have had some truth however the stigma of growing up hungry, cold and homeless also left a lasting …show more content…
Ultimately, his repressed memories of sexual abuse subconsciously played a role in his relationships and who he became as an individual. In fact, upon this realization Charlie decides he no longer needs to write to the mysterious stranger; believing he has control over his own life and that he is not defined by his past. For example, Charlie said “I keep quiet most of the time, and only one kid named Sean seemed to notice me” (Chbosky 7). In conclusion, there are perks if you prefer to not be the center of attention and the drawbacks as you maybe a target for bullies and miss out on opportunities, of being a