Dysfunctional Families Books: A Curated List

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Little Fires Everywhere

by Celeste Ng

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng is a captivating book about dysfunctional families, secrets, and the complexities of motherhood. Set in Shaker Heights, Ohio, the novel follows the intertwined lives of the Richardson family and Mia Warren, an enigmatic artist and single mother. When Mia and her daughter Pearl rent a house from the Richardsons, their lives become entangled in unexpected ways, sparking tensions and uncovering long-buried secrets. The novel delves into the themes of privilege, race, and the pursuit of perfection, as the characters grapple with their own desires and the expectations of their community. Ng’s exquisite prose and intricate storytelling make this novel an engrossing exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and the devastating consequences of keeping secrets. Little Fires Everywhere is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant dysfunctional families book that will leave readers pondering the complexities of family dynamics long after they’ve finished the last page.

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The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a compelling memoir that offers a raw and honest portrayal of a dysfunctional family. Walls recounts her tumultuous upbringing with a highly unconventional and often neglectful parents, who were constantly on the move and struggled with alcoholism and mental illness. Despite the chaotic and often disheartening circumstances, Walls also shares moments of love, resilience, and hope that she and her siblings found amidst the challenging environment.

This poignant and moving account delves into themes of poverty, resilience, and the enduring bond of family. The Glass Castle is a gripping and unforgettable read that sheds light on the complexities of dysfunctional families and the enduring impact of childhood experiences. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the dynamics of dysfunctional families and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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The Nest

by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of money on relationships. The story revolves around the Plumb siblings, who are eagerly awaiting their inheritance, known as ‘The Nest,’ to solve their financial problems. However, when their reckless older brother jeopardizes the family fund, the siblings’ lives are thrown into chaos, forcing them to confront their own insecurities and resentments.

This book about dysfunctional families presents a candid portrayal of sibling rivalries, parental favoritism, and the struggle for independence. Sweeney’s insightful writing captures the nuances of family relationships, portraying the characters’ flawed yet relatable nature. The novel explores themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and the power of self-discovery, making it a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the complexities of dysfunctional families.

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The Dutch House

by Ann Patchett

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett is a captivating exploration of a dysfunctional family. At the heart of the story is the Conroy family, who are deeply affected by the opulent Dutch House, their lavish family home that becomes both a source of comfort and conflict. The novel is narrated by Danny, the youngest Conroy sibling, who reflects on his tumultuous childhood and the enduring impact of the house on his family. Patchett’s masterful storytelling delves into themes of loss, betrayal, and resilience, as the Conroys grapple with their complex family dynamics and the lingering presence of the Dutch House. The novel’s richly drawn characters and evocative prose make it a compelling read for anyone drawn to books about dysfunctional families. Patchett’s exploration of family relationships and the enduring power of a physical place make The Dutch House a poignant and thought-provoking dysfunctional families book.

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Commonwealth

by Ann Patchett

Commonwealth is a captivating novel by Ann Patchett that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics. The story revolves around two families whose lives become intertwined after a chance encounter at a party. As the novel unfolds, we witness the intricate relationships and the impact of their choices on the next generation. Patchett skillfully explores the themes of love, loss, betrayal, and forgiveness, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intricacies of human relationships.

This book on dysfunctional families reveals the tangled web of emotions and secrets that bind the characters together, offering a poignant and insightful exploration of the ties that bind families, even when they are fractured. Patchett’s writing is both thought-provoking and deeply moving, making Commonwealth a must-read for anyone drawn to stories that delve into the complexities of family life.

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The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a gripping novel that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book explores the life of Theo Decker, who becomes orphaned at a young age after a tragic accident. The story follows Theo as he navigates through life, grappling with loss, love, and the consequences of his actions. Set against the backdrop of the art world, The Goldfinch is a powerful portrayal of the impact of trauma and the search for identity and belonging.

With its richly drawn characters and vivid prose, The Goldfinch is a compelling exploration of the bonds that tie us together and the secrets that tear us apart. This book about dysfunctional families is a poignant and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of family relationships. Donna Tartt’s masterful storytelling and keen insight make The Goldfinch a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience.

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Everything I Never Told You

by Celeste Ng

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel about a dysfunctional family grappling with the sudden death of their teenage daughter, Lydia. Set in 1970s Ohio, the Lee family struggles with their own secrets, insecurities, and unspoken truths as they attempt to unravel the mystery behind Lydia’s demise. Through poignant storytelling and compelling character development, Ng delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the burden of unfulfilled expectations, and the weight of unspoken emotions.

The novel delves into themes of identity, race, and the pressure to conform to societal norms, all while painting a vivid portrait of a family in turmoil. Ng’s prose is both evocative and haunting, drawing readers into the Lee family’s world as they navigate their grief and confront the unspoken truths that have shaped their lives. Everything I Never Told You is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of familial relationships and the impact of unspoken secrets on the human psyche.

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The Vacationers

by Emma Straub

The Vacationers by Emma Straub is a captivating and insightful book about dysfunctional families. Set on the beautiful island of Mallorca, the novel follows the Post family as they embark on a two-week vacation filled with tension, secrets, and unexpected twists. As the family members grapple with their own personal struggles and desires, their relationships with each other are put to the test, leading to moments of humor, heartbreak, and profound revelations.

With her keen eye for detail and complex character dynamics, Straub crafts a story that is both entertaining and deeply moving. The Vacationers explores the intricacies of family dynamics, the complexities of love and marriage, and the universal quest for happiness and fulfillment. Readers will find themselves drawn into the lives of the Posts, relating to their flaws and vulnerabilities, and ultimately rooting for their growth and healing. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys nuanced storytelling and rich portrayals of familial relationships.

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The Family Upstairs

by Lisa Jewell

The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell is a gripping and suspenseful novel that delves into the complex and dark dynamics of a dysfunctional family. The story follows Libby, who inherits a grand and mysterious house in London on her 25th birthday. As she uncovers the secrets of her past, she discovers the disturbing and tangled history of the family who used to live there.

With its intricate plot and richly developed characters, this book about dysfunctional families is a compelling and immersive read. Lisa Jewell skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives and timelines, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the dark secrets of the past are slowly revealed. The Family Upstairs is a haunting and atmospheric exploration of the destructive power dynamics and hidden traumas within families, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and complex family dramas.

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The Immortalists

by Chloe Benjamin

The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin is a captivating and thought-provoking novel about dysfunctional families. The story follows four siblings who visit a fortune teller as children and are told the dates of their deaths. The book then explores how this knowledge shapes each of their lives, as they grapple with the weight of the prophecy and the choices they make in light of it.

Benjamin’s writing is rich and evocative, drawing readers into the lives of the Gold siblings as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of family relationships. The novel delves into themes of destiny, mortality, and the enduring bonds that tie families together, making it a compelling and emotional read for anyone interested in books about dysfunctional families.

With its blend of stunning prose and poignant storytelling, The Immortalists is a powerful exploration of the human experience and the ways in which our fates are intertwined. This dysfunctional families book is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

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The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel that delves into the intricacies of a dysfunctional family. Set in the wild and untamed landscapes of Alaska, the story follows the Allbright family as they seek a fresh start in the rugged wilderness. The father, Ernt, a Vietnam War veteran, struggles with PTSD, which leads to his erratic and volatile behavior, causing turmoil within the family. His wife, Cora, and their teenage daughter, Leni, must navigate the challenges of living in isolation with a man who becomes increasingly unpredictable and dangerous.

As they adapt to the harsh realities of life in Alaska, the Allbrights face not only the perils of the natural environment but also the tumultuous dynamics of their own family. With themes of resilience, love, and the enduring bond between a mother and daughter, this book about dysfunctional families is a deeply moving and poignant exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the struggle for survival.

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The Roanoke Girls

by Amy Engel

The Roanoke Girls by Amy Engel is a gripping and unsettling tale that delves into the dark and disturbing secrets of a dysfunctional family. Set in a small town in Kansas, the novel follows the story of Lane Roanoke, who returns to her family’s estate after the sudden disappearance of her cousin, Allegra. As Lane unravels the twisted history of the Roanoke family, she uncovers a web of abuse, manipulation, and toxic relationships that have plagued the family for generations.

Engel’s skillful storytelling and haunting prose make this a compelling and thought-provoking read. The novel explores themes of trauma, betrayal, and the destructive impact of family secrets. The Roanoke Girls is a chilling and intense portrayal of the complexities and consequences of growing up in a dysfunctional family. With its dark and haunting narrative, this book about dysfunctional families will leave readers captivated and disturbed long after the final page.

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The Turner House

by Angela Flournoy

The Turner House by Angela Flournoy is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of a multigenerational family and the challenges they face. Set in Detroit, the book follows the Turner family as they navigate their way through financial struggles, addiction, and the ghosts of their past. As the thirteen Turner siblings come together to decide the fate of their family home, long-held secrets and unresolved issues rise to the surface, forcing them to confront the dysfunction that has plagued their family for decades.

Flournoy’s writing is rich with detail and vividly brings to life the characters and their surroundings, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in a deeply human exploration of family dynamics. The Turner House is a poignant and thought-provoking portrayal of the complexities of family relationships, making it a must-read for fans of books about dysfunctional families.

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The Middlesteins

by Jami Attenberg

The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg is a captivating book about dysfunctional families, exploring the complex dynamics and relationships within the Middlestein family. Attenberg skillfully weaves together the story of Edie Middlestein, a woman struggling with food addiction, and the impact of her choices on her husband, children, and grandchildren. The novel delves deep into the intricacies of family bonds, the weight of responsibility, and the enduring love that holds them together. Through poignant and sometimes humorous anecdotes, Attenberg paints a vivid portrait of a family grappling with their own demons and striving to find a sense of understanding and acceptance. The Middlesteins is a compelling exploration of the complexities and challenges that come with being a part of a dysfunctional family, and it will resonate with readers who appreciate insightful and thought-provoking storytelling.

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The Corrections

by Jonathan Franzen

The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics. This book on dysfunctional families follows the lives of the Lambert family, as they navigate through their individual struggles and relationships with each other. Franzen skillfully weaves together the narratives of the family members, exploring themes of identity, mental illness, and the desire for connection.

With rich and vivid prose, Franzen creates a portrait of a dysfunctional family that is both heart-wrenching and darkly humorous. The novel delves into the intricacies of family bonds, while also examining the impact of societal pressures and expectations on individual lives. The Corrections is a powerful and moving exploration of the human condition, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of familial relationships.

This book about dysfunctional families is an unflinching look at the intricacies of human relationships and the ways in which we strive for understanding and connection within the context of our family dynamics.

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The Poisonwood Bible

by Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of a dysfunctional family. Set in the Belgian Congo during the 1960s, the story follows the Price family as they navigate the challenges of missionary work and cultural clashes. Each chapter is narrated by a different member of the family, providing a unique perspective on their experiences and the impact of their father’s zealous beliefs. As the family struggles to adapt to their new surroundings, tensions rise, and their relationships unravel.

Kingsolver’s rich and evocative prose brings the African landscape to life, while also exploring themes of colonialism, religion, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The Poisonwood Bible is a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the ways in which dysfunctional families can be shaped by external forces and internal dynamics. It is a powerful and compelling read that will resonate with anyone interested in family dynamics and the human experience.

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The Glass Forest

by Cynthia Swanson

The Glass Forest by Cynthia Swanson is a riveting psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the secrets that can unravel them. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the lives of the Graves family, as they navigate the challenges of their dysfunctional household. When the patriarch, Arthur, goes missing, his wife, Angie, and their two daughters, Ruth and Evie, are left to grapple with the aftermath. As the layers of their family’s facade begin to unravel, long-buried secrets and betrayals come to light, forcing the family to confront their past and the lies they’ve been living.

Swanson expertly weaves a tale of deception, manipulation, and the haunting effects of trauma, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the truth behind the Glass Forest. This gripping novel offers a compelling exploration of the complexities of family relationships and the unspoken tensions that lie beneath the surface. A must-read for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking book about dysfunctional families.

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The Almost Sisters

by Joshilyn Jackson

The Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics. The story follows Leia Birch Briggs, a successful comic book artist who finds herself facing unexpected challenges when she becomes pregnant after a one-night stand at a comic convention. As she navigates her own personal struggles, Leia is also confronted with the unraveling secrets of her Southern family, including her aging grandmother suffering from dementia and her stepsister’s troubled marriage. The novel skillfully explores themes of race, identity, and the legacy of the South, while also delving into the intricacies of familial relationships. With its rich storytelling and well-developed characters, The Almost Sisters is a poignant and thought-provoking book on dysfunctional families that will resonate with readers who appreciate a heartfelt and emotionally charged narrative.

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The Girls

by Emma Cline

The Girls by Emma Cline is a captivating novel that delves into the complex dynamics of a troubled family. Set in the late 1960s, the story follows Evie Boyd, a young teenager who becomes entangled with a group of enigmatic girls involved in a cult-like commune. As Evie becomes increasingly immersed in their world, she finds herself grappling with the dysfunctional dynamics within her own family, seeking an escape from the chaos and dysfunction that surrounds her. Through Cline’s poignant and evocative prose, the novel explores the intricate web of relationships within a dysfunctional family, delving into themes of manipulation, desire for belonging, and the lasting impact of trauma. The Girls is a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of human connection and the enduring effects of dysfunctional family dynamics, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploring the complexities of family dynamics.

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The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a captivating and emotional tale that delves into the complexities of relationships and the impact of choices made throughout a lifetime. Set against the backdrop of New York City, the story follows the lives of Lucy and Gabe, who meet on September 11th and are instantly drawn to each other. Their connection is intense, but life takes them in different directions, and they ultimately part ways. Despite their separation, their bond remains unbreakable, and the novel explores the enduring power of first love and the enduring impact it has on their lives.

As the years go by, Lucy and Gabe navigate through love, loss, and longing, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in their journey. The Light We Lost is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of love, fate, and the choices we make. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling story about the complexities of relationships and the enduring power of love.