Are you looking for the perfect book on family to add to your reading list? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best family books that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling connected to the characters and their stories. From heartwarming tales of love and togetherness to thought-provoking explorations of family dynamics, these books are sure to resonate with readers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of fiction or nonfiction, there’s a family book on this list that’s bound to captivate you.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Family
- 2 Little Fires Everywhere
- 3 Educated
- 4 The Dutch House
- 5 Homegoing
- 6 The Great Alone
- 7 Pachinko
- 8 Commonwealth
- 9 The Immortalists
- 10 The Nest
- 11 The Light We Lost
- 12 The Mothers
- 13 The Turner House
- 14 The Glass Castle
- 15 The Family Upstairs
- 16 The Wangs vs. the World
- 17 The House We Grew Up In
- 18 The Burgess Boys
- 19 The Middlesteins
- 20 The Vacationers
- 21 The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Family
Little Fires Everywhere
by Celeste Ng
Little Fires Everywhere is a captivating book about family dynamics, secrets, and the complexities of motherhood. Set in the picture-perfect suburb of Shaker Heights, the novel explores the intertwined lives of two very different families, the Richardsons and the Warrens. As the story unfolds, simmering tensions and buried secrets come to light, igniting little fires that threaten to consume everything in their path. Author Celeste Ng masterfully weaves together themes of identity, privilege, and the consequences of our choices, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, Little Fires Everywhere is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a powerful family drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships.
Educated
by Tara Westover
Educated by Tara Westover is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s journey of self-discovery and education. Born into a strict and isolated family in rural Idaho, Tara Westover’s upbringing was marked by her father’s radical beliefs and her family’s reluctance to engage with the outside world. Despite her lack of formal education, Tara’s thirst for knowledge and determination led her to break free from her family’s constraints and pursue a higher education. This powerful and inspiring book on family explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and the impact of upbringing on one’s identity. Through her poignant storytelling, Westover invites readers to reflect on the meaning of family and the resilience of the human spirit.
The Dutch House
by Ann Patchett
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett is a captivating book about family that follows the lives of siblings Danny and Maeve as they navigate the complexities of their family dynamics. Set against the backdrop of a grand and mysterious mansion known as The Dutch House, the novel explores the enduring bond between the siblings and their shared experiences of love, loss, and reconciliation. Patchett skillfully weaves together themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of familial connections, creating a poignant and thought-provoking narrative that will resonate with readers. The novel is a compelling exploration of the intricacies of family relationships and the profound impact they have on our lives, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates a beautifully crafted book on family.
Homegoing
by Yaa Gyasi
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi is a captivating and powerful book about family that spans generations. This epic novel follows the lineage of two half-sisters in 18th-century Ghana, one married off to a British colonizer and the other sold into slavery. The story unfolds through the descendants of these two women, painting a rich and complex portrait of the African diaspora and the legacy of slavery. Gyasi’s lyrical prose and vivid storytelling bring to life the experiences of each generation, from the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade to the struggles of modern-day America. Homegoing is a profound exploration of identity, heritage, and the enduring connections that tie us to our ancestors. This is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking family book.
The Great Alone
by Kristin Hannah
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a gripping family saga set in the wild and unforgiving landscape of Alaska. The story follows the Allbright family as they attempt to start anew in the remote wilderness, hoping to escape the turbulence of their past. The novel delves into the complexities of familial relationships, resilience, and the power of love and determination. As the family confronts the harsh Alaskan winters and the isolated community, they are forced to confront their own inner demons and long-buried secrets. This poignant and heart-wrenching tale explores the strength and fragility of the human spirit, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a powerful family book.
Pachinko
by Min Jin Lee
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is a captivating and multigenerational family saga that follows the lives of a Korean family in Japan. Spanning over four generations, the novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, identity, and resilience. Set against the backdrop of historical events such as the Japanese occupation of Korea and World War II, Pachinko delves into the complex relationships within the family, as well as their struggle to find a sense of belonging in a society that often marginalizes them. This poignant and beautifully written book about family offers a rich and immersive reading experience, drawing readers into the lives of its characters and the challenges they face. Pachinko is a powerful and deeply moving family book that leaves a lasting impact on its readers.
Commonwealth
by Ann Patchett
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett is a captivating book about family that delves into the complexities of relationships, secrets, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. The novel follows the lives of the blended Cousins and Keating families over five decades, exploring the dynamics between siblings, step-siblings, and parents. Set against the backdrop of California and Virginia, the story weaves together themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness, as the characters navigate the challenges of their interconnected lives. Patchett’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make Commonwealth a compelling and thought-provoking book on family, reminding readers of the enduring ties that bind us together, even in the midst of personal and familial turmoil.
The Immortalists
by Chloe Benjamin
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin is a captivating book on family that follows the lives of four siblings who, after visiting a psychic in their youth, learn the dates of their own deaths. The novel delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics, exploring how this knowledge shapes each of their destinies. As the siblings navigate love, loss, and the pursuit of immortality, Benjamin skillfully weaves together their individual stories, creating a poignant and thought-provoking narrative. With its rich character development and compelling exploration of the ties that bind us, The Immortalists is a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful family book that delves into the intricacies of human connection and the impact of fate on our lives.
The Nest
by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney
The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a captivating book about family dynamics, inheritance, and the complexities of sibling relationships. The story revolves around the dysfunctional Plumb family, whose long-awaited inheritance, known as “the nest,” becomes the center of their lives. When a reckless mistake jeopardizes the shared trust fund, the four siblings are forced to confront their own personal struggles and confront the reality of their relationships with one another. Sweeney’s compelling storytelling skillfully weaves together the characters’ individual journeys, secrets, and conflicts, creating a rich and relatable narrative that delves into the intricacies of familial bonds, love, and forgiveness. The Nest is a poignant and thought-provoking book on family that explores the enduring connections and complexities that define our lives.
The Light We Lost
by Jill Santopolo
The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a captivating love story that follows the lives of Lucy and Gabe, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship over the course of thirteen years. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the choices we make that shape our lives. It’s a poignant tale of passion, heartbreak, and the enduring connection between two people, despite the obstacles that life throws their way. This emotionally resonant book on family delves into the intricacies of relationships and the impact of our decisions on those we love. The Light We Lost is a powerful and moving family book that will stay with readers long after the final page.
The Mothers
by Brit Bennett
The Mothers by Brit Bennett is a captivating and poignant book about family that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and secrets. Set in a small, close-knit community in Southern California, the novel follows the intertwined lives of three young people as they navigate the challenges of growing up, making choices, and dealing with the consequences. The story explores the impact of decisions made in youth on the trajectory of one’s life and the lasting effects on relationships within a community. With beautiful prose and deep emotional insight, Bennett skillfully portrays the intricacies of human connection, the bonds that tie us together, and the ways in which our past shapes our future. The Mothers is a powerful and moving book on family that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
The Turner House
by Angela Flournoy
The Turner House by Angela Flournoy is a compelling book about family that follows the Turner family as they grapple with the legacy of their Detroit home. The novel delves into the complexities of familial relationships, as the Turner siblings navigate their own personal struggles while coming together to make decisions about the future of their family home. Flournoy’s vivid storytelling and rich character development bring to life the dynamics of this multigenerational family, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring ties that bind them together. The Turner House is a poignant and insightful family book that captures the heart and soul of a family facing both personal and collective challenges.
The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a compelling memoir that delves into the author’s tumultuous childhood and her unconventional family dynamics. Set against the backdrop of poverty and dysfunction, this book on family chronicles Walls’ experiences growing up with her erratic and eccentric parents, as well as her three siblings. From their nomadic lifestyle to their struggles with alcoholism and mental illness, The Glass Castle offers a raw and poignant portrayal of resilience and survival. Walls’ vivid storytelling and candid reflections provide a powerful exploration of the complexities of familial relationships and the enduring bonds that connect us. This family book is a captivating and emotional journey that will resonate with readers long after the final page.
The Family Upstairs
by Lisa Jewell
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell is a gripping and suspenseful book about family secrets and the dark, hidden past of the wealthy and mysterious Lamb family. The novel explores the interconnected lives of three individuals who are drawn together by a shared history and the enigmatic house they all once called home. As the story unfolds, long-buried secrets and shocking revelations come to light, unraveling the tangled web of deceit and betrayal that has haunted the family for decades. With its complex characters and intricate plot, this book about family delves into the complexities of relationships, the power of the past, and the enduring impact of dark family secrets. Readers will be captivated by the eerie and atmospheric setting, and will be kept on the edge of their seats as the mystery unfolds.
The Wangs vs. the World
by Jade Chang
The Wangs vs. the World by Jade Chang is a captivating book about family dynamics and the pursuit of the American Dream. This hilarious and heartwarming novel follows the Wang family as they embark on a cross-country road trip after losing their fortune in the financial crisis. Each family member brings their own hopes, dreams, and baggage along for the ride, leading to both comedic and touching moments. Through their journey, the Wangs learn to confront their past, embrace their cultural heritage, and redefine what it means to be a family. With its witty and insightful storytelling, The Wangs vs. the World is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good family book.
The House We Grew Up In
by Lisa Jewell
The House We Grew Up In by Lisa Jewell is a captivating book about family that delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, secrets, and the impact of the past on the present. The story revolves around the Bird family, focusing on the matriarch, Lorelei, and her four children who are deeply affected by a tragic event that occurred in their childhood home. As the narrative unfolds, it explores the complexities of sibling relationships, the weight of family secrets, and the enduring ties that bind them together. With richly drawn characters and a compelling storyline, this family book offers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring resilience of familial bonds. Lisa Jewell skillfully weaves a tale that will resonate with readers who appreciate immersive and emotionally resonant stories about the intricacies of family life.
The Burgess Boys
by Elizabeth Strout
The Burgess Boys is a captivating family book by Elizabeth Strout that delves into the complexities of sibling relationships and the impact of past traumas on family dynamics. The novel follows the lives of the Burgess siblings, Bob, Jim, and Susan, as they navigate their intertwined past and present in a small town in Maine. When a family crisis brings them together, old tensions resurface, forcing them to confront long-buried secrets and unresolved conflicts. Strout’s masterful storytelling weaves together themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring ties that bind families together. The Burgess Boys is a poignant and insightful exploration of the intricate and often turbulent dynamics within a family, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in a book on family relationships.
The Middlesteins
by Jami Attenberg
The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg is a captivating book about family that delves into the complexities and dynamics of the modern American family. Attenberg skillfully weaves together the story of the Middlesteins, a dysfunctional yet endearing family, as they navigate love, loss, and food. The matriarch, Edie, struggles with her unhealthy relationship with food, while her family members grapple with their own issues and relationships. Through Attenberg’s poignant storytelling, readers are drawn into the intricate web of family dynamics, love, and forgiveness. The family book is a compelling exploration of the ties that bind us and the resilience of the human spirit. The Middlesteins is a rich and immersive read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of family relationships.
The Vacationers
by Emma Straub
The Vacationers by Emma Straub is a captivating book about family dynamics and the complexities of relationships. Set in the stunning backdrop of Mallorca, Spain, the story follows the Post family as they embark on a two-week vacation. Franny and Jim, the parents, are celebrating their 35th wedding anniversary, while their daughter Sylvia is preparing to leave for college. As they navigate through their own personal struggles and secrets, the vacation becomes the perfect setting for tensions to unravel and for new beginnings to emerge. With rich character development and beautiful prose, Straub delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, love, and forgiveness. The Vacationers is a poignant and relatable book on family that explores the universal themes of connection and self-discovery.
The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley
by Hannah Tinti
The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley by Hannah Tinti is a captivating book about family, filled with love, loss, and redemption. The novel follows the life of Samuel Hawley and his daughter, Loo, as they navigate the complexities of their relationship while coming to terms with their past. Through twelve interconnected stories, the book delves into the secrets and struggles that have shaped their lives, blending elements of suspense, adventure, and heartwarming moments. As they confront their individual demons, the bond between father and daughter grows stronger, making this family book a compelling exploration of the enduring ties that bind us together. With its richly drawn characters and evocative storytelling, The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley is a powerful and unforgettable tale of resilience and the enduring power of family.
Conclusion
Family is a central theme in literature, and these 20 best books about family delve into the complexities, joys, and struggles of familial relationships. From heartwarming tales of love and resilience to gripping stories of betrayal and redemption, these books capture the multifaceted nature of family dynamics. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming family saga or a thought-provoking exploration of familial bonds, these books offer something for every reader. Dive into these compelling stories and explore the intricacies of family life through the lens of these captivating narratives.
Which Family book is best?
The best book on Family can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Family?
For those looking to learn about Family, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng,
- Educated by Tara Westover,
- The Dutch House by Ann Patchett,
- Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi,
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- Pachinko by Min Jin Lee,
- Commonwealth by Ann Patchett,
- The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin,
- The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney,
- The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
These books offer a range of perspectives on Family, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Family?
The best books on Family include:
- Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng,
- Educated by Tara Westover,
- The Mothers by Brit Bennett,
- The Turner House by Angela Flournoy,
- The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin,
- Pachinko by Min Jin Lee.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Family 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 Family books of all time?
Choosing the best Family books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng,
- Educated by Tara Westover,
- The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
- The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin,
- The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo,
- The Turner House by Angela Flournoy,
- and The Mothers by Brit Bennett.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Family and continues to be influential today.