Well, the Walls family's nomadic existence is a major part of the real story. They would go from one place to another, often living in less - than - ideal conditions. Jeannette's father's alcoholism was a big issue. It led to financial problems and instability in the family. The mother, who was an artist, was somewhat disengaged from the practical aspects of raising the children. And the idea of the glass castle, which was her father's dream project, was a recurring theme throughout the story. It represented both hope and the father's unfulfilled promises.
In the real story of 'The Glass Castle', there are several key events. The family's poverty - stricken lifestyle is prominent. They had to scrounge for food and resources. Jeannette's experience of getting burned while cooking at a very young age is also a significant event. Her father's attempts to make a better life for the family, despite his alcohol problems, like his ideas about finding gold, are part of the story. The family's complex relationships, with the siblings often relying on each other, and the parents' eccentricities all contribute to the main events in this memoir - based story.
One main event is the family's constant moving. They lived in various places like the desert. Another is the father's alcohol - related problems which often caused trouble. Also, the building of the glass castle was a significant idea in the story, though it was never actually built.