Books matching: inherited trauma
31 result(s)
- #1
Save:Intriguing and thoughtful exploration of inherited trauma - not a one-size-fits-all solution, but an eye-opening read for those wanting to understand or heal their family legacy.
'It Didn't Start with You' by Mark Wolynn delves into the concept of inherited family trauma and how it shapes individuals' lives. Readers found the book to provide insights on how traumas are passed down through generations, exploring the impact of ancestral experiences on present behaviors and emotions. The author combines scientific explanations with anecdotal examples to help readers understand the significance of exploring their family history to heal past wounds and end destructive cycles.
A well-documented feature of trauma, one familiar to many, is our inability to articulate what happens to us. Not only do we lose our words, but something happens with our memory as well. During a tra...April 2016•260 pages A beautifully written, multi-generational tale that explores how trauma (and love) can ripple through history and families. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and original - but not always light or easy. For fans of deep, interwoven stories about family, heritage, and healing.
'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy: A Novel' by Jamie Ford is a compelling story that follows many different women in a family line, spanning three centuries. The book delves into the concept of trauma and love being passed down through generations, exploring the effects of epigenetics. The author skillfully weaves together the stories of these women, each with their own distinct personalities and traumas, creating a narrative that is both historical and speculative. The non-chronological order of storytelling adds complexity to the plot, keeping readers engaged as they uncover the interconnected lives of these characters.
The writing style in 'The Many Daughters of Afong Moy' is praised for its beautiful language and ability to evoke vulnerability in readers. The book addresses themes such as inherited trauma, mental health issues, and the impact of historical events on individuals. Despite dealing with heavy subjects like sexism, racism, and bigotry, the author manages to create empathetic characters that resonate with readers, making the book a thought-provoking exploration of familial relationships and the legacy of the past.
Faye Moy signed a contract stating that she would never marry. That’s what the American Volunteer Group had required of all female recruits. Though as she sat in the bar of the Kunming Tennis Club, Fa...August 2022•384 pagesA comforting, research-backed guide to taming your inner critic and treating yourself with the kindness you truly deserve. Not a miracle cure, but a life-changing mindset shift for many.
'Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself' by Kristin Neff discusses the destructive consequences of negative self-thoughts and how our culture has normalized self-hatred and harsh self-judgment. Dr. Neff provides methods to quiet these habitual negative thoughts, emphasizing treating oneself with kindness and understanding, similar to how one would treat a friend in need. explores the concept of self-compassion as an alternative to self-criticism, highlighting the importance of acknowledging our common humanity and practicing mindful awareness. Through research findings, personal stories, and practical exercises, Dr. Neff guides readers on a journey towards healing destructive emotional patterns and cultivating self-compassion for a healthier and happier life.
This kind of compulsive concern with “I, me, and mine” isn’t the same as loving ourselves . . . Loving ourselves points us to capacities of resilience, compassion, and understanding within that are si...April 2011•331 pagesA compassionate, eye-opening guide for recognizing and healing the invisible wounds of childhood emotional neglect - hugely helpful for many, but some may crave more depth or a broader perspective.
"Running on Empty: Overcome Your Childhood Emotional Neglect" by Jonice Webb, PhD, delves into the topic of emotional neglect and its impact on individuals. It offers insights on how emotional neglect can damage people and provides guidance on how to heal and move forward. Readers have praised the book for its psychological self-help approach, which includes teaching coping skills, communication techniques, and empathy development. Many have found the book to be a valuable resource in understanding the effects of childhood emotional neglect and learning how to navigate through challenging situations.
“…I am trying to draw attention to the immense contribution to the individual and to society which the ordinary good mother with her husband in support makes at the beginning, and which she does simpl...October 2012•302 pages- #5
Save:A thoughtful, big-hearted book that encourages empathy and self-reflection in parenting. Take the advice that resonates, skip what doesn’t, and don’t worry about perfection - because relationships, not rules, really matter.
'The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read {and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did}' by Philippa Perry is a practical and insightful guide to parenting, focusing on understanding the emotional dynamics between parents and children. The author encourages readers to reflect on their own childhood experiences and how they impact their parenting style, offering tools to repair relationships and foster healthy emotional connections. Perry's writing style is gentle and empathetic, providing real-life examples and case studies to illustrate her insights on the importance of empathy, communication, and self-reflection in raising children.
The book delves into the complexities of parent-child relationships, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging and validating children's emotions. Perry's approach highlights the need for parents to prioritize building strong emotional connections with their children, while also addressing issues such as communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, and self-awareness. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, the book offers a compassionate and insightful perspective on effective parenting strategies that prioritize emotional well-being and understanding.
The cliché is true: children do not do what we say; they do what we do. Before we even consider the behaviour of our children, it’s useful – essential, even – to look at their first role models. And o...February 2020•320 pages - #6
Save:Confessions by Catherine Airey is a debut novel that intricately weaves together the lives of three generations of Irish women, set against the backdrop of significant historical events. The story begins with 16-year-old Cora, who becomes an orphan after losing her father in the 9/11 attacks. She finds a lifeline in her estranged Aunt Roisin in Ireland, and as the narrative unfolds, it flits back and forth in time, diving into the stories of Cora’s mother and her aunt, exploring their struggles with loss, addiction, and identity amid the complexities of family dynamics.
Airey's writing style is noted for its sharpness, yet it bears an experimental quality with its use of second-person narration and epistolary elements. The thematic presence of absence recurs throughout the book, depicting the haunting impact of trauma and the passage of time. Despite some readers finding the plot a bit convoluted and the structure challenging, others appreciate its emotional depth and the vivid portrayal of interconnected lives. The novel ultimately captures the resilience and vulnerabilities of women as they navigate their intertwined histories.
Two days after she disappeared, most of my mother’s body washed up in Flushing Creek. The morgue had comfy armchairs in the lobby, and I can remember being annoyed that it didn’t take longer for my fa...January 2025•480 pages - #7
Save:The Cinderella Heiress follows the journey of Beatrice, who inherits Lady Tregowin's fortune and property along with two other young ladies who turn out to be her half-sisters. Beatrice's inheritance marks the beginning of her self-esteem and self-assuredness, while also uncovering the vilest villains who challenge her newfound confidence. Alongside her, Jack, wounded at Waterloo, enters her life by chance and offers to escort her to London, leading to a slow-growing romance with emotional depth. The book beautifully narrates the evolution of Beatrice from a downtrodden, abused woman to a strong, resilient character, as well as Jack's struggle with his own insecurities post-war.
May 2021•269 pages A thoughtful, reflective guide for parents (and anyone!) who want to understand themselves better in order to build stronger, more mindful relationships with children - just don’t expect a list of shortcuts or a how-to manual.
'Parenting From the Inside Out' by Mary Hartzell and Daniel J. Siegel explores the impact of childhood experiences on parenting, aiming to help readers understand themselves better in order to become better parents. The book delves into the complexities of parent-child relationships, offering insights on how to de-escalate interactions with children and providing advice on how to navigate the challenges of parenthood. Through discussions on attachment theory, brain development, and the importance of creating a nurturing environment, the authors encourage readers to reflect on their own upbringing to enhance their parenting skills.
The writing style of 'Parenting From the Inside Out' is described as enlightening, digestible, and thought-provoking. The book prompts readers to consider their own childhood programming and how it influences their parenting approach, emphasizing the significance of introspection and self-awareness in fostering meaningful connections with children. By blending scientific explanations with practical advice, the authors offer a holistic perspective on parenting that focuses on understanding oneself to create a supportive and nurturing environment for children.
2003•272 pages- #9
Save:Braithwaite’s sophomore novel is a moody, engrossing family saga infused with myth and grief. It’s perfect for those drawn to atmospheric, character-driven tales of complicated women, but may leave others wanting more narrative risk.
Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite weaves the story of the Falodun family, whose women are haunted by a generational curse of heartbreak. The narrative centers around Monife, who believes she can break the curse with her perfect love, and her cousin Ebun, who grapples with the implications of her aunt's tragic death. As the plot unfolds, we meet Eniiyi, Ebun's daughter, who carries the weight of her family’s grief and is seen as a reincarnation of Monife. The story spans decades, moving fluidly through time, and tackles themes of family dynamics and the struggle against inherited trauma.
The weather was all wrong. It was rainy season; at least it was supposed to be. She would have welcomed dark clouds, thunder, a perfect storm. Instead, the sun was relentlessly bright and the sky was...September 2025•358 pages - #10
Save:A bold, darkly funny, and emotionally trenchant family saga - perfect for fans of character-driven stories who can handle a little bit of dysfunction and a lot of sharp wit.
Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner tells the story of the Fletcher family, focusing on the emotional fallout from a traumatic event - the kidnapping of their father, Carl. After the kidnapping, the family tries to ignore its effects, leading to dysfunction and complicated relationships among the three adult children: Nathan, Beamer, and Jenny. The book uses humor and depth to explore themes like family trauma and the burden of wealth, with each chapter offering a different character's perspective, although not all characters feel fully developed.
Then, early in the morning in late September just a few years ago, Phyllis Fletcher died. It was several days after Yom Kippur, and she lay in her living room, on her marital bed, which had been dragg...July 2024•465 pages
