Book Club
The Fishful ThinkingSM book club is a great way to learn about parenting, optimism and more while sharing stories and experiences with your closest friends. After reading the book, use the questions outlined below to further guide your discussion.
The current book club selection is:
The Glass Castle
By: Jeannette Walls
When you think about your childhood, you probably remember times when you struggled or experienced disappointment and moments when you were hurt by something your parents said. You also likely remember moments when you soared, experiences when you felt strong and accomplished and words that your parents shared that inspired or comforted you. You might also think about your children and what they will remember—both good and bad—about growing up with you as a parent.
As you reflect on your family, you might find the word "dysfunctional" popping into your head. Many of us use the word to describe the problematic aspects of our childhood. In fact, the term "dysfunctional family" has become so commonplace, that it is easy to believe that families are nothing more than the fertile ground in which pain, suffering and disillusionment grow.
The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls, challenges us to think about our family with honesty and to explore the complexity of our family by understanding its strengths along with its weaknesses. In addition, she demonstrates that amidst the chaos, challenges and struggles all families have their strengths—and that dysfunction does not negate the opportunity for love, growth and resilience. Although Jeannette's parents had deep troubles, they also had their strong points, and Jeannette explores both sides with insight, humor and compassion.
As you read the book, here are some questions to think about. You can also discuss these with your book group, your spouse or significant other.
- What did you learn from your parents and siblings about coping with adversity and challenges?
- What did you learn from your parents and siblings about setting goals and following dreams?
- How would you describe the core issues that your parents struggled with? How did you understand their struggles when you were a child? How do you understand their struggles now that you are an adult?
- How would you describe your parents' greatest strengths? What are examples of how their strengths positively influenced you?
- What brought your parents the most happiness? What did you learn about happiness from your parents?
- What positive messages did your parents teach you? In what ways are you passing the torch by sharing these messages with your own children?
- When you think about your family from your child's perspective, what struggles and strengths do you think they perceive in you? What might your children be learning about resilience and happiness by having you as a parent?