The 20 Adoption Fiction Books: Best 2024 Update and Review

Are you looking for a captivating read that delves into the complexities of adoption? Look no further! We have curated a list of the 20 best books on adoption fiction that will tug at your heartstrings and open your eyes to the diverse experiences of adoption. From heartwarming tales of love and family to poignant stories of identity and belonging, these adoption fiction books offer a rich exploration of the adoption experience. Whether you’re an adoptive parent, an adoptee, or simply interested in the topic, these books are sure to resonate with you. Get ready to be immersed in the world of adoption with these compelling and thought-provoking reads!

20 Best Adoption Fiction Books

The Orphan’s Tale

by Pam Jenoff

The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff is a captivating book on adoption fiction that takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey through the lives of two women during World War II. Set in a German circus, the story follows Noa, a young Dutch woman who finds herself pregnant and abandoned by her family, and Astrid, a Jewish trapeze artist who is hiding her true identity. As they form an unlikely bond, they must navigate the dangers of Nazi-occupied Europe while grappling with the secrets they each carry.

Jenoff’s poignant storytelling and rich historical detail bring to life the struggles and sacrifices of these two women as they fight for survival and independence amidst the chaos of war. The book about adoption fiction beautifully captures the themes of love, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. Readers will be drawn into the emotional depth of the characters and the harrowing realities they face, making it a compelling read that will stay with them long after the final page.

Before We Were Strangers

by Renée Carlino

Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino is a captivating book about the power of love, fate, and second chances. This poignant novel follows the story of Matt and Grace, college sweethearts who are separated by life’s circumstances. Years later, they unexpectedly cross paths on a New York City subway platform, reigniting the feelings they once shared.

This emotional rollercoaster takes readers on a journey through time as the characters reflect on their past and the choices that led them to where they are now. The story is beautifully woven with themes of love, loss, and the importance of following your heart.

With its heartfelt narrative and relatable characters, Before We Were Strangers is a must-read for anyone who enjoys emotional and thought-provoking books. This book on adoption fiction will resonate with readers who appreciate stories about love, fate, and the enduring power of connection.

The Language of Flowers

by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a captivating book about adoption fiction that delves into the complexities of foster care and the power of human connection. The story follows Victoria Jones, a young woman who has aged out of the foster care system and struggles to find her place in the world. Through her deep knowledge of the Victorian language of flowers, she forms connections with others and learns to navigate the challenges of love and belonging. This adoption fiction book beautifully explores themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the search for identity. Diffenbaugh’s poignant writing and vivid imagery make this a compelling and heartfelt read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you’re drawn to stories about the human experience and the bonds that tie us together, The Language of Flowers is an adoption fiction book that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you with a renewed sense of hope.

The Lost Girls of Paris

by Pam Jenoff

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel that delves into the world of espionage, friendship, and the resilience of women during World War II. Set in the aftermath of the war, the story follows the lives of three women who become secret agents for the British Special Operations Executive (SOE). As they carry out their dangerous missions behind enemy lines in occupied Europe, their bond strengthens and their courage is put to the test. The novel weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, as the women face unimaginable challenges in their quest for justice and freedom.

This gripping tale of bravery and sisterhood is perfect for fans of historical fiction and espionage thrillers. With its richly drawn characters and heart-pounding plot, The Lost Girls of Paris is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling story of female empowerment and resilience in the face of adversity. This adoption fiction book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a heart-wrenching and captivating novel that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the choices we make. This poignant story follows the lives of Lucy and Gabe, who meet as college students in New York City and embark on a passionate and tumultuous love affair. However, their paths diverge, and they move on with their lives, always feeling the lingering pull of their connection. As they navigate their separate journeys, they must grapple with the impact of their choices on their own lives and the lives of those around them.

Through beautiful prose and deeply relatable characters, Santopolo explores the enduring power of first love and the enduring impact it can have on one’s life. The novel also touches upon the themes of fate, destiny, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our past. The Light We Lost is a compelling and emotional read that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

The Secret Life of Bees

by Sue Monk Kidd

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating and heartwarming book about adoption fiction. Set in the 1960s, it follows the journey of a young girl named Lily Owens who escapes her troubled home in South Carolina to uncover the mystery of her mother’s past. Along the way, she finds herself taken in by a trio of beekeeping sisters who open her eyes to a world of love, acceptance, and the power of female solidarity.

Through beautiful prose and vivid storytelling, Kidd explores themes of family, identity, and the search for belonging. The novel delves into the complexities of relationships and the profound impact of maternal figures, making it a poignant and moving adoption fiction book.

With its rich characters and evocative Southern setting, The Secret Life of Bees is a timeless tale that will resonate with readers of all ages. It’s a story of resilience, healing, and the transformative power of love, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply emotional and uplifting literary experience.

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and gut-wrenching story of survival, love, and resilience set in the unforgiving wilderness of Alaska. The novel follows the Allbright family as they seek a fresh start in the rugged and isolated landscape of the Last Frontier. Leni, the teenage daughter, finds herself caught in the turmoil of her parents’ tumultuous relationship amidst the harsh realities of living off the grid. The family’s struggle to adapt to the wilderness and the darkness of the Alaskan winters is a gripping tale of endurance and the bonds that hold families together. This poignant and evocative narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity. The Great Alone is a compelling and emotional read that will resonate with readers who appreciate powerful storytelling and richly drawn characters. With its themes of family dynamics and the search for belonging, this novel is a must-read for those interested in adoption fiction.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a captivating historical fiction novel that delves into the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, during World War II in France. The story follows their journey as they navigate through the challenges and adversities of the war, each in their own unique way. Vianne, the elder sister, has to keep her family safe and alive while Isabelle, the rebellious younger sister, becomes involved in the resistance, risking her life to save others.

This gripping tale of survival, love, and sacrifice is a poignant exploration of the strength of women during wartime. Hannah’s vivid storytelling and rich character development make this book a compelling read that will keep you engrossed until the very end. The Nightingale is a powerful and emotional novel that highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone looking for a deeply moving story about the bonds of family and the enduring power of love.

The Orphan Keeper

by Camron Wright

The Orphan Keeper by Camron Wright is a captivating and heart-wrenching book about a young boy named Chellamuthu who is kidnapped from his home in India and brought to America. Raised by a loving family in Utah, Chellamuthu is renamed Taj and grows up with no memory of his past. However, as an adult, he becomes determined to uncover the truth about his identity and the family he left behind.

This compelling novel is a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the enduring power of love. It delves into the complexities of adoption, the search for belonging, and the resilience of the human spirit. The Orphan Keeper is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

With its richly drawn characters and evocative storytelling, The Orphan Keeper is a must-read for anyone interested in adoption fiction or stories of resilience and hope.

The Lost Letter

by Jillian Cantor

The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor is a captivating book about adoption fiction that weaves together the lives of two women across different time periods. The story follows the journey of a young Jewish stamp engraver, Kristoff, in Austria during World War II, and a modern-day stamp dealer, Katie. When Katie stumbles upon a World War II-era letter in her late father’s stamp collection, she becomes determined to unravel the mystery behind the letter and the woman who wrote it.

As the narrative unfolds, readers are taken on a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the impact of war on both personal and historical levels. Cantor skillfully intertwines the lives of the characters, revealing the connections that bind them together across time and space. With rich historical detail and emotional depth, The Lost Letter is a compelling adoption fiction book that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the enduring power of love.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry

by Gabrielle Zevin

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin is a heartwarming book about adoption fiction that follows the story of A.J. Fikry, a cantankerous bookstore owner who is struggling to find joy after the death of his wife. When his rare book collection is stolen, A.J.’s life takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious package is left in his bookstore. The package contains a two-year-old girl named Maya, who becomes the beacon of hope in A.J.’s life.

This adoption fiction book takes readers on a journey of love, loss, and the power of books to transform lives. As A.J. navigates fatherhood and the challenges of raising Maya, he also finds love and redemption in unexpected places. The story is filled with memorable characters, literary references, and the magic of storytelling, making it a captivating and uplifting read for anyone who enjoys books about adoption fiction.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a poignant and charming adoption fiction book that beautifully captures the transformative power of love and literature.

The Lost Family

by Jenna Blum

The Lost Family by Jenna Blum is a captivating book on adoption fiction that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the search for identity. Set in post-World War II New York, the novel follows the life of Peter Rashkin, a renowned chef and Holocaust survivor, as he struggles to rebuild his life after the war. As Peter opens a successful restaurant, he also grapples with the void left by his wife and daughters, who perished in the Holocaust.

The story takes an unexpected turn when Peter falls in love again and starts a new family, only to be haunted by the ghosts of his past and the secrets that lie hidden within his own heart. Blum masterfully weaves together the threads of history, love, and loss, creating a poignant and emotionally rich book about adoption fiction that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned. The Lost Family is a compelling adoption fiction book that showcases the enduring power of love and the profound impact of the choices we make.

The Memory Keeper’s Daughter

by Kim Edwards

The Memory Keeper’s Daughter by Kim Edwards is a poignant and compelling book about adoption fiction. The story begins in 1964, when Dr. David Henry makes a split-second decision to send his newborn daughter, who has Down syndrome, to a state institution while telling his wife, Norah, that their baby girl died during childbirth. The consequences of this decision ripple through the lives of all the characters involved, shaping their relationships, identities, and futures.

As the years pass, the Henry family grapples with the consequences of the doctor’s choice, and the daughter, Phoebe, is raised by a nurse, Caroline, who is unaware of the child’s true parentage. The novel explores themes of love, loss, deception, and the complexities of family relationships. Edwards crafts a rich and emotional narrative that delves into the intricacies of human connection and the far-reaching impact of one fateful decision. The Memory Keeper’s Daughter is a powerful adoption fiction book that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page.

The Child Finder

by Rene Denfeld

The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld is a gripping and haunting book about a woman named Naomi, who is a private investigator known as the “child finder.” She is hired to find a young girl named Madison, who disappeared three years ago in the snowy wilderness of Oregon. As Naomi delves into the case, she is forced to confront her own haunting past and the trauma she experienced as a child. The story is beautifully written, with evocative prose that brings the stark and desolate landscape to life. This book on adoption fiction explores the themes of loss, survival, and the enduring power of hope. The author skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. The Child Finder is a compelling and emotional read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

The Lost Girls

by Heather Young

The Lost Girls by Heather Young is a captivating book about adoption fiction that delves into the complexities of family, memory, and identity. The novel follows the intertwined stories of three generations of women in a family, each grappling with the legacy of a mysterious disappearance that occurred decades earlier.

As the narrative unfolds, the reader is drawn into a web of secrets, lies, and long-buried traumas, all centered around the haunting disappearance of a young girl. The author skillfully weaves together the past and present, gradually revealing the hidden connections between the characters and the events that shaped their lives.

With lyrical prose and a keen eye for detail, Heather Young creates a rich and evocative world that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page. The Lost Girls is a powerful and poignant exploration of the bonds that bind us together, and the enduring impact of the choices we make. This adoption fiction book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling.

The Orphan’s Wish

by Melanie Dickerson

The Orphan’s Wish by Melanie Dickerson is a captivating book about adoption fiction that takes readers on a journey through medieval times. This young adult novel follows the story of Aladdin, a young orphan who dreams of a better life outside the streets of the bustling city. When he meets a beautiful and courageous young woman, he finds himself embarking on a thrilling adventure filled with danger, romance, and unexpected twists.

Dickerson’s skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the characters and settings to life, immersing readers in a world of magic and intrigue. As Aladdin and his friends navigate the challenges and perils they encounter, they discover the true meaning of love, loyalty, and the power of hope.

With its blend of historical fiction, romance, and elements of fantasy, The Orphan’s Wish is a compelling adoption fiction book that will captivate readers of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of fairytales or simply love a good adventure, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Lost Ones

by Sheena Kamal

The Lost Ones by Sheena Kamal is a gripping and heart-wrenching book about the search for identity and belonging. This compelling adoption fiction novel follows the story of Nora, a young woman who has always felt lost and disconnected from her roots. When she discovers that she was adopted, Nora embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her past and her biological family. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dark secrets and long-buried lies that threaten to shatter her world.

Kamal’s powerful storytelling and vivid characters make this book about adoption fiction a must-read. The author weaves a complex and emotional narrative that explores the complexities of family, love, and the longing for belonging. The Lost Ones is a thought-provoking and poignant adoption fiction book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. With its compelling plot and richly drawn characters, this novel is a compelling exploration of the search for identity and the power of love and resilience.

The Orphan’s Song

by Lauren Kate

The Orphan’s Song by Lauren Kate is a captivating book about adoption fiction that follows the story of two orphans, Violet and Lucien, as they navigate the enchanting yet perilous world of the Palais Garnier in 19th-century Paris. Set against the backdrop of the mesmerizing opera house, the novel weaves a tale of love, longing, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

As Violet and Lucien form an unbreakable bond through their shared love for music, they face the challenges of their uncertain futures and the secrets of their pasts. The author skillfully crafts a narrative that delves into the complexities of identity, family, and the power of resilience.

Readers will be drawn into a world of mystery and romance, where the characters’ quest for belonging and purpose will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. With rich historical detail and lyrical prose, The Orphan’s Song is a beautifully written adoption fiction book that will capture the hearts of readers and leave them longing for more.

The Lost Family

by Libby Copeland

The Lost Family by Libby Copeland is a captivating book on adoption fiction that delves into the complexities of identity, family, and belonging. Through the lens of DNA testing and genealogy, Copeland explores the lives of individuals who discover shocking truths about their origins, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and reconciliation.

The book weaves together the stories of individuals who grapple with the impact of adoption on their sense of self, as well as the emotional complexities that arise when long-held family secrets are unearthed. Copeland’s skillful storytelling and poignant exploration of the human experience make this book about adoption fiction a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Readers will be drawn into the lives of the characters as they navigate the intricate web of relationships, emotions, and revelations that come with the search for one’s roots. The Lost Family is a captivating adoption fiction book that will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned where they come from and the meaning of family.

The Orphan Collector

by Ellen Marie Wiseman

The Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie Wiseman is a gripping and poignant book about adoption fiction that delves into the dark and often overlooked history of the orphan trains in the United States. Set in 1918 during the Spanish flu pandemic, the story follows Pia Lange, a young German immigrant living in New York City, who is forced to take on the responsibility of caring for two orphaned children after their mother dies. As Pia navigates the challenges of caring for the children amidst the chaos of the epidemic, she uncovers the harsh reality of the orphan train system and the exploitation of vulnerable children. The novel sheds light on the complexities of family, love, and resilience in the face of adversity, making it a compelling and emotional read for anyone interested in adoption fiction. Ellen Marie Wiseman’s vivid storytelling and rich historical detail bring this lesser-known aspect of American history to life, making The Orphan Collector a must-read for fans of historical fiction and adoption fiction books alike.

Final Thoughts on Best Adoption Fiction Books

Adoption is a complex and emotional subject that has been explored in many works of fiction. The 20 best books about Adoption Fiction offer a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, shedding light on the joys and challenges of adoption. Whether you are personally connected to adoption or simply curious about the topic, these books provide powerful and thought-provoking stories that are sure to resonate with readers.

Which book about Adoption Fiction is best?

The best book on Adoption Fiction can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
  2. Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino,
  3. 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 Adoption Fiction?

For those looking to learn about Adoption Fiction, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
  2. Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino,
  3. The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh,
  4. The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff,
  5. The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo,
  6. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd,
  7. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah,
  8. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
  9. The Orphan Keeper by Camron Wright,
  10. The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor

These books offer a range of perspectives on Adoption Fiction, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Adoption Fiction?

The best books about Adoption Fiction are:

  • The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
  • Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino,
  • The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin,
  • The Lost Family by Jenna Blum,
  • The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
  • The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Adoption Fiction 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 Adoption Fiction books of all time?

Choosing the best Adoption Fiction books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
  • Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino,
  • The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo,
  • The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah,
  • and The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Adoption Fiction and continues to be influential today.