Fam...
can be this
OR
they drive you insane
From the traditional definition of family, to the family you make yourself - these are the people that have your back no matter what.
They can be a lot to unpack or the best thing in your life. That's why in books, there are a myriad of familial relationships. From supportive to fucked up, I've picked out a few of my favorites for their intrigue, support, or unconditional love.
So here are my TOP 5 family relationships in literature.
5. Jack and Annie - Magic Tree House
Jack and Annie are the brother and sister duo of Mary Pope Osborne's Magic Tree House series. These were some of the first books I remember falling in love with, not only for the whimsy but also for their teamwork. Jack and Annie helped support each other through every twist and turn, through history, and in any location!
4: Lucille, Ruthie, and Aunt Sylvie - Housekeeping
Lucille, Ruthie, and Aunt Sylvie were dysfunctional, but in such an intriguing way. This novel is distilled to perfection and a true joy to read. The strange dynamics of their family are both relatable and absurd.
3: Girl, Boy, and Malorie - Bird Box
Girl, Boy, and Malorie are a makeshift family during a time when "creatures" have taken over. If you've been following #theNestblog, than you know just how much I loved Bird Box and its sequel Malorie, so it should come as no surprise that I enjoyed this family. I love how Malorie takes care of girl as an adoptive daughter even with some struggles. I appreciate the fact that she didn't name them at first because of the traumatic experience they lived through.
2: Matthew and Simon Holmes - The Shock of the Fall
Matthew and Simon are brothers with a bond beyond the grave. Matthew deals with mental illness and the loss of his brother. Hallucinations of his brother visit him throughout the novel as Matthew works through his past.
1: Liesel and Hans - The Book Thief
Liesel and Hans have a special relationship. As her foster father, Hans takes care of Liesel, cares for her, and teaches her to roll cigarettes. I loved seeing their relationship grow in this heartbreaking novel.
Cheers,
H