Essay Questions

How does Hager explore the importance of family?

This book is all about the importance of the family unit, and how family gives a person a sense of grounding and comfort. Hager writes specifically about the influence of her paternal and maternal grandparents, who taught her basic principles of kindness and respect, and also taught her a lot about the world. These are lessons Hager states that she will pass onto her own children, showing the importance of familial values through time.

What were Barbara Bush's rules for her grandchildren in the house?

Hager tells us that whilst staying at her grandparent's house in Maine, they had to abide by a series of rules. These rules were posted on the back of every door in the house, and read as follows:

"Don't track in sand
Hang up your towel
Tell us if you'll be eating dinner out
Make your bed"

As such, Hager presents Barbara as an organized grandparent who made it clear what she expected.

How did George Bush's rules differ from Barbara's?

Hager explains that each grandparent had their own set of rules. While Barbara's rules were more simple, practical rules for around the house, George's were much more general. They included "Don't get down when your life takes a bad turn," and "Don't blame others for your setbacks."