Books on Being Adopted: Discover the Top 20 List

Are you or someone you know looking for a compelling read that delves into the complex and emotional experience of being adopted? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on being adopted that offer poignant and insightful perspectives on this unique journey. Whether you’re interested in memoirs, novels, or self-help books, these selections cover a wide range of themes, from identity and belonging to family dynamics and self-discovery. Get ready to be moved, inspired, and enlightened by the powerful storytelling and raw honesty found in these being adopted books.

20 Best Being Adopted Books

The Girl Who Was Taken

by Charlie Donlea

The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of abduction and the harrowing aftermath for the victims. The story follows two young women, Nicole Cutty and Megan McDonald, who were both abducted and managed to escape their captor. As they struggle to piece together the events of their captivity, they uncover a web of dark secrets and shocking revelations.

When Nicole’s sister, Livia, a forensic pathologist, becomes involved in a murder investigation, she discovers a connection to her sister’s abduction, leading her to unravel the truth behind the sinister crimes.

Donlea’s skillful storytelling and intricate plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats, as the characters race against time to uncover the chilling truth. The Girl Who Was Taken is a riveting exploration of resilience, trauma, and the unbreakable bond between sisters. This book about being adopted will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Child Finder

by Rene Denfeld

The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld is a captivating and haunting novel that delves into the world of missing children. The story follows Naomi, a private investigator known as the “child finder,” who is skilled at locating lost children. Naomi is hired to find Madison, a young girl who disappeared three years ago in a remote forest. As she delves into the case, Naomi’s own troubled past as a foster child and her experiences as an adoptee come to the forefront, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the narrative.

Denfeld’s lyrical prose and atmospheric storytelling create a sense of unease and suspense that lingers throughout the book. The novel also explores themes of resilience, survival, and the enduring impact of trauma, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in stories about resilience and the search for identity. This book about being adopted is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the power of hope, and it will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned.

The Lost Girls of Paris

by Pam Jenoff

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is an enthralling historical fiction novel that takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of three remarkable women during World War II. The story revolves around the unsung heroines of the war, specifically focusing on the brave women of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) who were sent to occupied Europe to aid the resistance. When Grace stumbles upon a suitcase full of photographs belonging to one of these women, she embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind their courageous actions and the secrets they left behind.

This gripping tale of friendship, love, and sacrifice is filled with suspense and intrigue, making it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and stories of extraordinary women. The Lost Girls of Paris is a poignant and powerful exploration of the often overlooked contributions of women during wartime, and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on readers long after they’ve turned the final page.

The Orphan’s Tale

by Pam Jenoff

The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel set during World War II. The story follows Noa, a young woman who is forced to give up her baby for adoption and ends up joining a traveling circus to escape her past. Along the way, she forms a bond with Astrid, a fellow performer who is also grappling with the challenges of being an orphan. Together, they navigate the dangers of the war and the secrets they carry, finding solace and strength in their unlikely friendship.

This book delves into the themes of identity, belonging, and the search for family, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in stories about resilience and the human spirit. Whether you’re looking for a book about being adopted, the complexities of family dynamics, or simply enjoy a well-crafted historical fiction novel, The Orphan’s Tale is sure to captivate you with its rich storytelling and memorable characters.

The Lost Family

by Jenna Blum

The Lost Family by Jenna Blum is a captivating novel that delves into the complex emotions and relationships of being adopted. Set in post-World War II New York, the story follows Peter Rashkin, a renowned chef and Holocaust survivor, as he navigates the challenges of love, loss, and identity. Blum skillfully weaves together the lives of Peter, his wife, and daughter, exploring the profound impact of his past on their present.

With beautifully crafted prose and deep emotional insight, The Lost Family is a poignant exploration of the lasting effects of trauma and the search for belonging. Blum’s compelling storytelling and richly drawn characters make this novel a powerful and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the complexities of adoption and family dynamics. The book offers a compelling look at the experience of being adopted, and the struggles and triumphs that come with it.

The Lost Girls

by Heather Young

The Lost Girls by Heather Young is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of three generations of women and their family secrets. Set in a remote lake house in Minnesota, the story follows Lucy, a young girl who goes missing in 1935, and her granddaughter Justine, who returns to the lake house decades later to unravel the mystery of her family’s past. As Justine uncovers long-buried secrets, the reader is taken on a journey of love, loss, and the complexities of family ties.

With beautiful prose and richly drawn characters, The Lost Girls is a poignant exploration of identity and the profound impact of family history. The novel skillfully weaves together the stories of these women, shedding light on the legacy of trauma and the enduring power of love across generations.

For anyone interested in a compelling and thought-provoking book about being adopted, The Lost Girls is a must-read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

The Lost Letter

by Jillian Cantor

The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor is a captivating historical fiction novel that intertwines two compelling storylines. The first follows a young girl named Kristoff, who is working as an apprentice to a master stamp engraver in World War II Austria. The second storyline takes place in modern-day Los Angeles and centers around a woman named Katie, who is struggling with her identity as an adopted child.

As the two narratives unfold, a lost letter connects Kristoff and Katie in unexpected ways, revealing long-buried family secrets and the power of love and resilience across generations. Cantor’s poignant exploration of the themes of loss, identity, and the search for belonging will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pull of their own history and heritage. The Lost Letter is a moving and beautifully written novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in stories of family, resilience, and the enduring power of love.

The Lost Ones

by Sheena Kamal

The Lost Ones by Sheena Kamal is a compelling and heart-wrenching book about being adopted. The story follows Nora Watts, a strong and complex protagonist who was abandoned as a baby and raised in a series of foster homes. Now an adult, Nora is determined to find her birth mother and uncover the truth about her past. As she delves into her own history, she becomes entangled in a dark and dangerous world, where she must confront the demons of her past while navigating the present dangers that threaten her and the people she cares about.

Kamal’s writing is evocative and powerful, drawing readers into Nora’s tumultuous journey as she grapples with the complexities of identity, family, and the search for belonging. The novel offers a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional turmoil that comes with the search for one’s roots, while also delivering a gripping mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Lost Ones is a must-read for anyone craving a captivating and emotional book on being adopted.

The Lost Man

by Jane Harper

The Lost Man by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery set in the harsh Australian Outback. When Cameron Bright is found dead in the scorching heat, his family is left reeling from the shock. As his older brother, Nathan, delves into the circumstances surrounding Cameron’s death, he uncovers long-buried secrets and painful truths about their family’s past.

This book is a compelling exploration of family dynamics, buried secrets, and the unforgiving landscape of the Outback. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the plot is filled with suspense and unexpected twists. Harper’s vivid descriptions of the Outback make the setting come alive, adding an atmospheric layer to the story. The Lost Man is a must-read for fans of thrilling mysteries and compelling family dramas.

The Lost Vintage

by Ann Mah

The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey through the vineyards of Burgundy, France. The story follows Kate, a woman who is grappling with her own identity and a family secret that has been kept hidden for generations. As Kate delves into her family’s history, she uncovers the truth about her own origins and learns about the complexities of her family’s past.

This novel is not just about wine and the French countryside; it is also a poignant exploration of family, heritage, and the search for one’s true identity. The Lost Vintage is a beautifully written and engaging story that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in the complexities of adoption and family dynamics. Ann Mah’s vivid descriptions and well-developed characters make this novel a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant story.

The Lost City of the Monkey God

by Douglas Preston

The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston is a thrilling non-fiction adventure that follows the author and a team of explorers on a perilous journey to uncover the legendary ancient city in the Honduran jungle. With vivid descriptions and heart-pounding suspense, the book takes readers on a captivating expedition fraught with dangers from deadly snakes to tropical diseases. As they navigate through the uncharted territory, the team unravels the mysteries of the “White City” and grapples with the ethical dilemmas of uncovering a lost civilization.

With its gripping narrative and rich historical context, this book is a must-read for fans of exploration, archaeology, and ancient civilizations. Preston’s vivid storytelling and meticulous research make The Lost City of the Monkey God an enthralling and enlightening read that will transport readers to the heart of the dense jungle and leave them pondering the enduring allure of lost civilizations.

The Lost Queen

by Signe Pike

The Lost Queen by Signe Pike is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the life of Languoreth, a forgotten queen of sixth-century Scotland. Set against the backdrop of the rise of Christianity and the impending invasion of the Anglo-Saxons, Languoreth struggles to find her place in a world torn between old traditions and new beliefs. As she navigates the complexities of power, love, and duty, Languoreth must make difficult choices that will shape the future of her kingdom.

This book is an enthralling tale of courage, resilience, and the enduring bonds of family. It delves into the themes of identity, belonging, and the search for one’s true heritage, making it a must-read for anyone interested in history, mythology, and the human experience. With its richly detailed setting and compelling characters, The Lost Queen is a spellbinding journey that will transport readers to a time of ancient legends and timeless struggles.

The Lost for Words Bookshop

by Stephanie Butland

The Lost for Words Bookshop by Stephanie Butland is a heartwarming novel that follows the journey of Loveday Cardew, a young woman who finds solace and sanctuary in the world of books. Loveday, a bookworm with a troubled past, works at the Lost for Words Bookshop where she discovers a mysterious book on being adopted that sets her on a path of self-discovery and healing. As Loveday navigates the complexities of her past and present, she finds herself forming unexpected connections with the people around her, including the charming poet, Archie, who helps her confront her fears and insecurities.

Set against the backdrop of a cozy bookshop, The Lost for Words Bookshop is a captivating story about love, loss, and the power of literature to heal and inspire. With lyrical prose and a cast of endearing characters, this book about being adopted is a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the enduring bond between books and their readers. Readers will be drawn into Loveday’s emotional journey as she learns to embrace her past and find hope for the future.

The Lost Night

by Andrea Bartz

The Lost Night by Andrea Bartz is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of friendship, memory, and the secrets we keep from one another. Set in New York City, the story follows a group of friends who reunite a decade after a tragic event that shattered their tight-knit bond. When one of the friends, Sarah, discovers a disturbing note in her apartment, she begins to question the events of that fateful night and her own memories. As she delves into the past, she uncovers shocking revelations that challenge everything she thought she knew about her friends and herself.

This compelling novel is a page-turner that keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mystery alongside Sarah. The Lost Night is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the impact of trauma on memory. Bartz’s skillful storytelling and captivating characters make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys a suspenseful and emotionally resonant tale.

The Lost Girls of Camp Forevermore

by Kim Fu

The Lost Girls of Camp Forevermore by Kim Fu is a captivating and poignant novel that follows a group of five girls who become stranded in the wilderness during a camping trip. As they struggle to survive, their bonds are tested and the secrets they keep from each other begin to unravel. The story alternates between the girls’ harrowing experience in the woods and the aftermath of their ordeal, exploring the impact it has on their lives as they grow into adulthood.

With beautiful prose and richly drawn characters, this book delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the long-lasting effects of trauma. It’s a powerful exploration of the complexities of female relationships and the ways in which our past experiences shape our identities. The Lost Girls of Camp Forevermore is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or struggled to find their place in the world.

The Lost Family: How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are

by Libby Copeland

The Lost Family: How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are by Libby Copeland is a fascinating exploration of the impact of DNA testing on the concept of family and identity. Through compelling storytelling and in-depth research, Copeland delves into the experiences of people who have taken DNA tests and discovered unexpected family connections, revealing the profound and often complex emotions that come with this discovery. This book offers a thought-provoking examination of the ways in which DNA testing is reshaping our understanding of family, genealogy, and personal identity. It takes the reader on a journey through the emotional and psychological implications of uncovering unknown relatives, and raises important questions about the ethical and moral considerations surrounding this rapidly evolving technology. The Lost Family is a must-read for anyone interested in the profound impact of DNA testing on the modern understanding of family, making it essential for anyone who is curious about their own heritage or seeking to understand the complexities of modern family dynamics.

The Lost Girls of Rome

by Donato Carrisi

The Lost Girls of Rome by Donato Carrisi is a gripping thriller that follows Sandra and her husband Marcus, who are struggling to adopt a child. When a girl’s body is found in the catacombs of Rome, Sandra, a former police officer, is drawn into the investigation, hoping to find answers about the girl’s identity. As she delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies, leading her to a mysterious organization that traffics in children.

As the story unfolds, Carrisi expertly weaves together the lives of the characters, exploring themes of loss, identity, and the longing for family. The novel is a captivating blend of mystery and emotional depth, with a richly drawn cast of characters and a haunting sense of atmosphere. The Lost Girls of Rome is a thought-provoking and compelling read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Language of Flowers

by Vanessa Diffenbaugh

The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of the foster care system and the power of human connection. The story follows Victoria, a young woman who has aged out of the foster care system and is struggling to find her place in the world. Throughout the novel, Victoria uses the Victorian language of flowers to communicate her emotions and navigate the challenges she faces. As she learns the meanings behind different flowers, she begins to unravel the secrets of her past and confront the trauma of her upbringing. This poignant and beautifully written book explores themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging, making it a must-read for anyone interested in stories of resilience and the human spirit. The Language of Flowers is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.

Before We Were Strangers

by Renée Carlino

Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino is a captivating tale of love, loss, and the power of second chances. The story follows Matt and Grace, who were once college sweethearts but drifted apart after graduation. Twenty years later, Matt stumbles upon Grace’s picture in a New York City subway and embarks on a journey to reconnect with his lost love. As they rekindle their romance, they are forced to confront the mistakes of their past and the challenges of their present. This heartfelt novel explores the themes of lost opportunities, forgiveness, and the resilience of the human heart.

With its poignant storytelling and relatable characters, Before We Were Strangers is a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a blend of romance and self-discovery. Whether you’re a fan of second-chance love stories or simply enjoy a well-crafted narrative, this book is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave a lasting impression.

The Art of Racing in the Rain

by Garth Stein

The Art of Racing in the Rain is a heartwarming and emotional novel by Garth Stein that offers a unique perspective on life, love, and the bond between humans and their furry companions. Told from the point of view of Enzo, a wise and insightful dog, the story follows the journey of a race car driver named Denny Swift and his experiences as he navigates the ups and downs of life, love, and parenthood.

Enzo provides a touching and often humorous account of Denny’s life, offering profound insights into the human condition and the challenges that come with it. The novel explores themes of resilience, determination, and the unbreakable bond between man and man’s best friend. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved a dog and will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for the special connections we share with our pets.

With its poignant storytelling and unforgettable characters, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and uplifting tale about the power of love and the joy of companionship.

Final Thoughts on Best Being Adopted Books

There you have it, the 20 best books about Being Adopted that offer diverse and insightful perspectives on the adoption experience. Whether you’re an adoptee, adoptive parent, or simply interested in the topic, these books provide valuable insights and powerful stories that will resonate with readers. From memoirs to fiction, these books capture the complexities and emotions of adoption in a compelling and thought-provoking manner. Happy reading!

Which book about Being Adopted is best?

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

  1. The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea,
  2. The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  3. The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Being Adopted?

For those looking to learn about Being Adopted, 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 Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea,
  2. The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  3. The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff,
  4. The Orphan’s Tale by Pam Jenoff,
  5. The Lost Family by Jenna Blum,
  6. The Lost Girls by Heather Young,
  7. The Lost Letter by Jillian Cantor,
  8. The Lost Ones by Sheena Kamal,
  9. The Lost Man by Jane Harper,
  10. The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah

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

What are the best books about Being Adopted?

The best books about Being Adopted are:

  • The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea,
  • The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  • The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston,
  • The Lost Queen by Signe Pike,
  • The Lost Ones by Sheena Kamal,
  • The Lost Girls by Heather Young.

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

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

  • The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea,
  • The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  • The Lost Family by Jenna Blum,
  • The Lost Ones by Sheena Kamal,
  • and The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Being Adopted and continues to be influential today.