Library staff chose favourite books about family.
Jade City by Fonda Lee
This politically intriguing urban fantasy is set on the Asian inspired island metropolis of Kekon, the only place in the world that produces the magical jade that grant superhuman abilities. The Kaul family is one of the two major crime syndicates in control of the island and when tensions explode between the Kaul family and their rivals, all-out clan war begins to determine the fate of Kekon. “Jade City” is a brilliant mafia-like family saga with intergenerational blood feuds and morally questionable characters willing to do anything for their family. - Natashia
Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan
The Joy Luck Club delves into the lives of four Chinese families experiencing the ups and downs of immigration and life in the U.S. Reading this book made me feel a mix of emotions—sometimes tearing up at the hardships, other times smiling at the glimmers of hope. Amy Tan beautifully captures the complexities of cultural identity, mother-daughter relationships, and the pursuit of the American Dream. - Elisa
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Set in the fictional Columbian town of Macondo, One Hundred Years of Solitude traces multiple generations of the town's founders, the Buendias Family. Told with humour, the novel is a political and social allegory laced with a comic weirdness of style critics would later call "magical realism," inspiring a new fictional genre. Garcia Marquez would be awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1982 and would go on to write other great novels, but 100 Years is his masterpiece. It is a pioneering work of fiction that remains endlessly entertaining. - Ken
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
"Pachinko" by Min Jin Lee is a poignant and captivating family saga that delves deep into the intricacies of family bonds. Set across generations, this powerful novel follows a Korean family's journey through love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of adversity. The exploration of identity, cultural clashes, and the power of family makes "Pachinko" an exceptional and unforgettable read for anyone looking for an incredible story about the complexities of family life. - Adia
Saving Sunshine by Saadia Faruqi (Junior Graphic Novel)
Saadia Faruqi's touching tale, "Saving Sunshine" beautifully captures how complex family dynamics can be and the journey of growing up. Through the eyes of teenage twins, Zara and Zeeshan Aziz, readers are taken on an adventure to save a turtle named Sunshine. However, the true heart of the story lies in the growth and development of the sibling relationship. Constantly at odds with each other, the twins' bickering provides a challenge for their parents, both busy doctors. As fate would have it, their mother's work trip becomes the catalyst for change as she grounds them and forces them to spend quality time together without their phones. While initially reluctant, the twins soon discover the joys of bonding and supporting each other. With its heartwarming message and relatable characters, "Saving Sunshine" is a must-read for anyone seeking a tale of family bonds and understanding. -- Ashley
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
In a dystopian world where crime is abundant the characters of Six of Crows have found each other against all odds and are their own family. A found family. The Crows as they are called are lead by criminal mastermind Kaz Brekker. When word reaches Kaz of a heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest imagination he enlists the most unlikely crew of misfits to try and pull it off. This impossible heist and Kaz's crew is all that could stand between the world and its destruction. - Mackenzie
The Unlikely Adventures of the Shergill Sisters by Balli Kaur Jaswal
The story revolves around three British-born Punjabi sisters—Rajni, Jezmeen, and Shirina—who, despite their differences, are brought together by their mother's dying wish. In order to fulfill her final request, the sisters embark on a journey to India, retracing their mother's footsteps and discovering the complexities of their cultural heritage. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and the challenges of straddling two cultures while weaving in humor and heartfelt moments. As the sisters navigate the ups and downs of their trip, they confront their own secrets and learn valuable lessons about love, sisterhood, and the ties that bind them. - Jen