Books Like...

The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh is a multi-generational tale that follows the lives of Vietnamese women from Vietnam to Little Saigon in Orange County, California, exploring themes of family curses, mother-daughter relationships, and Vietnamese culture. The book delves into the complexities of family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, and the struggles of balancing traditions with modern values, all while maintaining a whimsical and wickedly funny writing style that brings the setting of Little Saigon to life.

'The Light Years' is the first book in the 'Cazalet Chronicles' series by Elizabeth Jane Howard. Set just before the Second World War, the novel follows the lives of the Cazalet family, who are wealthy and involved in the timber industry. The story delves into the family dynamics, secrets, and struggles faced by different family members, especially the women, as they navigate the looming threat of war. The book is praised for its detailed characterizations, beautiful descriptions of the English countryside, and the way it weaves together multiple storylines around each character.

"All Families are Psychotic" by Douglas Coupland is a darkly humorous and absurd novel that delves into the dysfunctional dynamics of the Drummond family. Set in Florida during the holidays, the story follows the chaotic and over-the-top experiences of the family members as they come together to witness the launch of their successful astronaut daughter. The plot twists and turns through outrageous events such as criminal enterprises, family secrets, and bizarre relationships, all narrated with a mix of zany humor and poignant insight. Coupland's writing style is described as fantastical, fast-paced, and filled with dark humor, making the implausible situations seem completely possible through excellent character development.

'China Court' by Rumer Godden is a multi-generational family saga centered around the Quin family and their ancestral home, China Court. The narrative weaves back and forth through time, exploring the lives of different family members who have inhabited the house over the years. The storytelling is intricate and detailed, capturing the essence of family dynamics, love, betrayal, and the impact of generations on each other. The writing style is described as lyrical, evocative, and atmospheric, with a unique narrative structure that keeps readers engaged in the story.

The Eighth Life is a sweeping historical saga spanning five generations of a Georgian family, from the early 20th century to modern times. The novel delves into the tumultuous history of Georgia and Russia, including WW1, WW2, the Russian Revolution, Stalin's regime, independence for Georgia, and more. It follows the lives of various family members, exploring themes of love, tragedy, politics, and personal choices against the backdrop of significant historical events. The book is described as an epic tale that weaves together multiple generations, offering a rich tapestry of characters and storylines that captivate the reader.

'The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls' by Anissa Gray is a tense family saga that delves into the lives of the Butler family, focusing on two African American sisters, Althea and Lillian, their brother Joe, and the aftermath of eldest sister Althea's arrest for misuse of funds collected for charity. The story explores themes of childhood trauma, anorexia, marital problems, and the ripple effects of Althea's imprisonment on her family members and the community. Through multiple perspectives, the novel portrays the struggles, complexities, and resilience of the family as they come together to navigate through the challenges they face.

The novel 'NW' by Zadie Smith delves into the lives of four characters in their thirties who grew up in the projects of northwest London. Through a narrative technique reminiscent of Virginia Woolf, the book offers a portrait of modern London, capturing the essence of the city with expert writing and vivid characterizations. The story follows the intertwined lives of Leah and Natalie, formerly Keisha, as they navigate friendship, identity, and the challenges of adulthood in a multicultural society.

Smith's writing style in 'NW' is described as ambitious, dark, and beautiful, blending differing perspectives and styles to tell a compelling modern tale. The book explores themes of globalization, class wars, and suburban identity, bringing the characters to life in a way reminiscent of Smith's acclaimed work 'White Teeth.' The narrative structure, while fragmented and chaotic at times, offers a unique and engaging portrayal of contemporary London life.

'Rain of Gold' by Victor Villasenor is a heartfelt and multi-generational saga that weaves together the tapestry of Mexican-American history. It tells the story of two Mexican families, focusing on two individuals who meet and marry, spanning from the proud generation in Mexico to surviving the turmoil of the Mexican revolution. The narrative portrays everyday life in Mexico, the beauty of the land, immigration to the United States, and the struggles faced by immigrants, all intertwined with themes of faith, love, labor, and the treatment of Mexicans in a foreign land.

The writing style of 'Rain of Gold' is evocative and poignant, transporting readers to a world filled with cultural richness and familial bonds. The author, Victor Villasenor, skillfully captures the essence of the characters' experiences, from crossing borders to pursuing the American Dream, while portraying familial relationships with warmth and depth.

"Grown Ups" by Marian Keyes revolves around the Casey family, comprising three brothers, their wives, and children. Initially portrayed as a glamorous and happy family, tensions start to surface when a careless remark by Ed's wife, Cara, leads to the unraveling of long-held secrets. The story delves into complex family dynamics, with multiple characters navigating personal weaknesses, relationships, and the need to mature. The plot is structured in a way that provides a rounded understanding of each adult character, leading to a cataclysmic event that forces them to confront the need to grow up.

The narrative style of "Grown Ups" is engaging and well-managed, with a good balance of humor and intrigue. The story starts at a pivotal moment, gradually revealing the background and interconnected lives of the characters. Through a mix of humor and drama, Marian Keyes skillfully depicts the richness and complexity of family life, portraying both the strengths and flaws of each character. Despite some challenges in keeping track of the numerous characters, the book offers a light-hearted yet engrossing exploration of family relationships and secrets.