Are you looking for powerful stories that shed light on the experiences of foster children? Look no further! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on foster children that will tug at your heartstrings and provide insight into the unique challenges and triumphs of foster care. From heartwarming tales of resilience to gripping narratives of hope and healing, these foster children books are a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and empathize with the foster care system.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Foster Children
- 2 The Great Alone
- 3 The Orphan’s Tale
- 4 The Language of Flowers
- 5 The Lost Girls of Paris
- 6 The Light Between Oceans
- 7 The Secret Life of Bees
- 8 The Glass Castle
- 9 The Nightingale
- 10 The Book Thief
- 11 The Fault in Our Stars
- 12 The Help
- 13 The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
- 14 The Kite Runner
- 15 The Perks of Being a Wallflower
- 16 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
- 17 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
- 18 The Outsiders
- 19 The Giver
- 20 The Secret Garden
- 21 Anne of Green Gables
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Foster Children
The Great Alone
by Kristin Hannah
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and emotional story set in the wilds of Alaska. The novel follows the Allbright family as they seek a fresh start in the rugged and untamed landscape. The protagonist, Leni, is a young girl caught in the tumultuous world of her parents’ troubled marriage and her father’s PTSD from the Vietnam War. As they navigate the challenges of living off the grid in Alaska, the family discovers the harsh realities of survival and the strength of the human spirit. This powerful tale explores themes of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between family members. The Great Alone is a poignant and gripping read that delves into the complexities of relationships and the fierce determination to survive in the face of adversity.
The Orphan’s Tale
by Pam Jenoff
The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of two young women during World War II. Set in a German circus, this heart-wrenching story follows the journey of Noa, a young Dutch girl who is forced to give up her baby and find refuge in the circus, and Astrid, a Jewish aerialist who takes Noa under her wing. As they navigate the dangers of war and the challenges of life in the circus, their bond deepens, and they form an unbreakable sisterhood. This book on foster children sheds light on the resilience and strength of those who are thrust into unexpected circumstances, and the power of hope and friendship in the face of adversity. The Orphan’s Tale is a poignant and compelling read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
The Language of Flowers
by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a captivating novel that delves into the world of foster children. The story follows Victoria, a young woman who has aged out of the foster care system and struggles to find her place in the world. Through the language of flowers, Victoria communicates her emotions and experiences as she navigates the challenges of adulthood. The book explores themes of love, loss, and resilience, offering a poignant and heartfelt portrayal of the struggles faced by foster children. With richly developed characters and a beautifully evocative writing style, The Language of Flowers is a moving and inspiring read that provides a unique perspective on the experiences of foster children.
The Lost Girls of Paris
by Pam Jenoff
The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the lives of three women during World War II. Set in the backdrop of the war, the story revolves around a group of female secret agents and their courageous missions behind enemy lines. With a focus on the bravery and resilience of these women, the novel reveals the untold stories of their sacrifices and struggles. The book delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the strength of the human spirit. Through Jenoff’s vivid storytelling, readers are transported to a world where the bonds of sisterhood are tested in the face of adversity. This compelling novel is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and stories of female empowerment.
The Light Between Oceans
by M.L. Stedman
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman is a heart-wrenching novel that explores the moral dilemma faced by a lighthouse keeper and his wife. Set on a remote island off the coast of Australia, the couple discovers a boat washed ashore carrying a dead man and a crying baby. Their decision to raise the child as their own sets off a chain of events that will test their love, morality, and the bonds of family. This emotionally charged story delves into the complexities of parenthood, loss, and the consequences of choices made in the name of love. The Light Between Oceans is a captivating and thought-provoking book about foster children, and it will leave readers pondering the true meaning of family and the sacrifices we make for those we love.
The Secret Life of Bees
by Sue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a young girl named Lily Owens as she escapes her troubled home and embarks on a quest for belonging and understanding. Set in the 1960s American South, this powerful story touches on themes of family, loss, and the search for identity. As the protagonist navigates her way through the complexities of life, she discovers a world of female strength and solidarity in the company of three beekeeping sisters. This poignant tale is a heartwarming exploration of love and resilience, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a touching book about foster children and the human spirit. The Secret Life of Bees is a beautifully crafted foster children book that will leave a lasting impact on its readers.
The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s tumultuous childhood. Raised in a dysfunctional and poverty-stricken family, Walls recounts the struggles and triumphs of her upbringing with an unflinching honesty. The book takes readers on a journey through Walls’ unconventional and often nomadic childhood, filled with moments of both heartbreak and resilience. It offers a poignant and powerful portrayal of resilience in the face of adversity, making it a compelling and inspiring read. The Glass Castle is a thought-provoking and unforgettable story that sheds light on the experiences of children growing up in challenging circumstances, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the lives of foster children.
The Nightingale
by Kristin Hannah
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a captivating historical fiction novel set in World War II-occupied France. The story follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate love, sacrifice, and resistance during the war. Vianne, a mother and wife, must make difficult choices to protect her family, while Isabelle joins the French Resistance and becomes a daring young woman risking her life to save others. The novel beautifully portrays the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity, and the unbreakable bond between sisters. With its poignant storytelling and powerful themes of bravery and love, The Nightingale is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction or stories of resilience and courage during wartime.
The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief, written by Markus Zusak, is a captivating novel set in Nazi Germany, narrated by Death. The story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living with a foster family in a small town near Munich. The book is a poignant portrayal of the power of words and the human spirit, as Liesel discovers the magic of books and their ability to provide solace in the midst of war and hardship. As Liesel navigates the challenges of growing up during such tumultuous times, she forms deep bonds with her foster parents and the people in her community, finding strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The Book Thief is a beautifully written and profoundly moving story that explores the enduring impact of literature and the indomitable nature of the human heart.
The Fault in Our Stars
by John Green
The Fault in Our Stars is a heart-wrenching novel that follows the journey of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with cancer, who meets Augustus Waters, a charming and witty boy at a support group. As they navigate their illness and the complexities of teenage life, their bond grows stronger, leading them on an unforgettable adventure to Amsterdam. John Green‘s poignant storytelling captures the raw emotions and struggles of young adults facing life-threatening illnesses. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of meaning in the face of mortality. It offers a powerful and honest portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of young people living with illness, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a moving and impactful story.
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a compelling novel set in 1960s Mississippi, focusing on the lives of African American maids and the white families they work for. The story is told from the perspectives of three women, including Skeeter, a young white woman who aspires to be a writer. As she begins to interview the maids about their experiences working for white families, she uncovers the harsh realities of racial segregation and discrimination. The book shines a light on the struggles and resilience of these women, as they navigate through a society deeply divided by racial inequality. The Help is a poignant and powerful story that delves into the complexities of race, class, and gender during a tumultuous time in American history.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
by John Boyne
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is a powerful and moving novel that tells the story of two boys, Bruno and Shmuel, who form an unlikely friendship during World War II. Bruno, the son of a Nazi officer, moves with his family to a house near a concentration camp. He befriends Shmuel, a boy on the other side of the fence, wearing striped pajamas. As the boys’ friendship deepens, they begin to uncover the harsh realities of the world around them. This book sheds light on the innocence of children in the midst of war and the impact of prejudice and hatred. It’s a heart-wrenching and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Kite Runner
by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a poignant and powerful novel that tells the story of Amir, a young boy from Kabul, Afghanistan, who forms a deep bond with his friend Hassan, the son of his father’s servant. The novel explores themes of friendship, betrayal, guilt, and redemption as Amir navigates the complexities of his relationship with Hassan and the tumultuous backdrop of his country’s political upheaval. Set against the backdrop of a changing Afghanistan, this book delves into the lives of children growing up in a war-torn country, and the struggles they face. It is a compelling and emotional tale that sheds light on the lives of marginalized children and the impact of their experiences. The Kite Runner is a must-read for anyone interested in stories about the challenges faced by children growing up in difficult circumstances.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
by Stephen Chbosky
The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager navigating his way through high school. Set in the early 1990s, the book delves into themes of friendship, love, and mental health as Charlie tries to find his place in the world. The story is told through a series of letters that Charlie writes to an anonymous friend, providing a raw and intimate look into his thoughts and experiences. As he grapples with the complexities of adolescence, Charlie forms deep connections with his friends, Sam and Patrick, who help him to come out of his shell. The novel tackles difficult topics such as abuse, trauma, and the challenges of growing up as a foster child, making it a poignant and impactful read for anyone interested in the experiences of foster children.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
by Mark Haddon
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, written by Mark Haddon, is a captivating mystery novel that offers a unique perspective on the world. The story is told through the eyes of Christopher, a 15-year-old boy with autism, who sets out to solve the murder of his neighbor’s dog. As he unravels the mystery, Christopher’s journey takes unexpected turns, revealing family secrets and challenging his own limitations. This heartwarming and insightful book offers a glimpse into the mind of a young protagonist who sees the world differently. It is a compelling and thought-provoking read that provides a touching portrayal of a foster child’s experience, making it a must-read for anyone interested in stories about children in alternative care, or ‘book about foster children’.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
by Sherman Alexie
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of a young Native American boy named Arnold Spirit Jr. as he navigates life on the reservation and his decision to attend a predominantly white school. This powerful book provides insight into the struggles and challenges faced by Arnold, a foster child, as he grapples with issues of identity, poverty, and fitting in. Through his witty and honest voice, Arnold shares his experiences with humor and heart, offering a poignant and relatable story that sheds light on the complexities of growing up as a foster child. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a compelling and thought-provoking read that explores the universal themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of a better future.
The Outsiders
by S.E. Hinton
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the struggles of a group of young boys growing up in Oklahoma. The story revolves around the conflicts between two rival gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, and the challenges they face as they navigate through adolescence. The protagonist, Ponyboy Curtis, and his brothers are part of the Greasers, a group of boys from the wrong side of the tracks who are often marginalized and misunderstood. The novel delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the impact of socioeconomic status on young people’s lives. With its raw and authentic portrayal of the challenges faced by young people, The Outsiders remains a timeless and relevant read for anyone interested in the experiences of foster children.
The Giver
by Lois Lowry
The Giver by Lois Lowry is a captivating dystopian novel that follows the story of Jonas, a young boy living in a seemingly perfect society. As he approaches his twelfth birthday, he is chosen to be the Receiver of Memories and begins training with the Giver, the sole keeper of the community’s past. Through this training, Jonas discovers the truth about his society, where emotions and memories are suppressed, and individuality is sacrificed for sameness. The novel explores themes of freedom, individuality, and the consequences of a controlled society. With its thought-provoking storyline and richly developed characters, The Giver is a compelling read that challenges readers to contemplate the true meaning of humanity and the importance of individuality.
The Secret Garden
by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden is a heartwarming classic about a young girl named Mary Lennox who, after being orphaned, is sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy mansion on the Yorkshire moors. Lonely and neglected, Mary discovers a hidden, overgrown garden on the estate and, with the help of her new friend Dickon, begins to tend to it. As she brings the garden back to life, she also begins to heal and blossom herself. This timeless tale of friendship, healing, and the transformative power of nature is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about the resilience and strength of children. It’s also a great book for those interested in stories about children in foster care, as it explores themes of loneliness and the power of love and connection in a child’s life.
Anne of Green Gables
by L.M. Montgomery
Anne of Green Gables is a timeless classic written by L.M. Montgomery. This heartwarming novel follows the story of Anne Shirley, a spirited and imaginative orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister who had intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm. The book beautifully captures Anne’s adventures and mishaps as she navigates her new life in the charming town of Avonlea. Full of humor, wit, and poignant moments, the novel delves into themes of belonging, friendship, and the power of imagination. Anne of Green Gables is a beloved tale that continues to resonate with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story about a book on foster children.
Conclusion
There you have it, the 20 best books about Foster Children! Whether you’re a foster parent, social worker, educator, or simply interested in learning more about the experiences of foster children, these books offer valuable insights and perspectives. From heartwarming stories of resilience to informative guides for supporting foster children, this curated list has something for everyone. Dive into these powerful narratives and gain a deeper understanding of the foster care system and the incredible children who navigate it.
Which Foster Children book is best?
The best book on Foster Children can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
- The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Foster Children?
For those looking to learn about Foster Children, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
- The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh,
- The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff,
- The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman,
- The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd,
- The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls,
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak,
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
These books offer a range of perspectives on Foster Children, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Foster Children?
The best books on Foster Children include:
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
- The Help by Kathryn Stockett,
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne,
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
- The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Foster Children are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Foster Children books of all time?
Choosing the best Foster Children books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
- The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman,
- The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green,
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne,
- and The Help by Kathryn Stockett.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Foster Children and continues to be influential today.