Books matching: complex mother daughter relationships
96 result(s)
- #1
Save:'Burnt Sugar' by Avni Doshi follows the tumultuous mother-daughter relationship between Antara and her mother, Tara. As Tara's dementia progresses, Antara is faced with caring for a mother who never seemed to care for her. The novel delves into their complicated history, from Tara's rebellious past to Antara's struggles with her own identity and mother's neglect. The story is a poignant exploration of toxic family dynamics, memory, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma.
The narrative in 'Burnt Sugar' alternates between past and present, showcasing Antara's journey of coming to terms with her mother's deteriorating condition while reflecting on their shared past filled with abandonment, abuse, and emotional turmoil. Avni Doshi's writing style is described as sharp, caustic, and elegantly crafted, unraveling the intricate layers of the mother-daughter relationship with unflinching honesty and complexity.
I suffered at her hands as a child, and any pain she subsequently endured appeared to me to be a kind of redemption – a rebalancing of the universe, where the rational order of cause and effect aligne... - #2
Save:Fierce Attachments: A Memoir by Vivian Gornick is a reflective narrative that delves into the complex relationship between the author and her mother, set against the backdrop of their Bronx neighborhood. Gornick chronicles her struggles with her acerbic mother and her search for companionship, particularly with the enigmatic figure of Nettie. The memoir explores themes of female relationships, generational influences, and the protagonist's internal search for identity through vivid prose and detailed characterizations.
- #3
Save:'Mrs. Warren's Profession' by George Bernard Shaw is a play that delves into the themes of societal hypocrisy, family ties, and the struggles faced by women in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Mrs. Warren, a working mother who has kept her profession hidden from her daughter. As the truth about her past is revealed, it leads to conflicts within the family and challenges the societal norms of the time. Shaw's writing style is described as brilliant and thought-provoking, with a focus on the social hierarchy and the complexities of family relationships.
- #4
Save:'My Evil Mother: A Short Story' by Margaret Atwood is a tale that delves into the relationship between a mother and her daughter, exploring the complexities of their bond from the daughter's earliest memories to after the mother's death. The narrative follows the daughter as she reflects on her experiences with her mother, trying to make sense of the relationship. Throughout the story, there are elements of humor, reminiscence, and emotional depth, creating a compelling exploration of familial dynamics. Atwood's writing style in this short story is described as fluid, easy to read, and engaging, making it a quick and entertaining read that keeps the reader captivated.
- #5
Save:Aquarium by David Vann follows twelve-year-old Caitlin, who spends her afternoons at the aquarium due to her mother's demanding job. When she befriends an elderly man, their relationship opens up dark truths about her family, leading to a brutal exploration of how adult sins impact children. The book beautifully captures Caitlin's innocence amidst a harsh reality, highlighting themes of love, family dynamics, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma.
- #6
Save:In "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng, the story revolves around two families from different backgrounds whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. Set in the carefully planned community of Shaker Heights, Ohio, the novel explores themes of motherhood, class, race, and family dynamics. The plot unfolds through multiple perspectives, delving into the complexities of relationships and societal pressures, ultimately leading to devastating consequences for both families.
The narrative structure of the book, which includes flashbacks and shifts in perspective, adds depth to the storytelling, keeping readers engaged as they uncover the secrets and tensions that fuel the little fires everywhere in the characters' lives. Ng's writing style delicately handles serious issues such as adoption, motherhood, and prejudice, allowing the characters to speak for themselves and leaving readers to ponder the moral dilemmas presented throughout the novel.
The previous June, when Mia and Pearl had moved into the little rental house on Winslow Road, neither Mrs. Richardson (who technically owned the house) nor Mr. Richardson (who handed over the keys) ha... 'Wild Game: My Mother, Her Lover, and Me' by Adrienne Brodeur is a memoir that delves into the complex and dysfunctional relationship between Adrienne and her mother, Malabar. The book narrates how Malabar involves Adrienne in her adulterous affair with her husband's best friend, leading to a decade of deception and emotional turmoil for Adrienne. The writing style is captivating, with detailed descriptions of family dynamics, emotional boundaries, and the impact of privilege and entitlement on relationships.
Ben Souther pushed through the front door of our Cape Cod beach house on a hot July evening in 1980, greeting our family with his customary, enthusiastic “How do!” In his early sixties at the time, Be...- #8
Save:Hot Milk by Deborah Levy is a novel that delves into the complex relationship between Sofia and her mother, Rose, as they travel to Spain seeking treatment for Rose's mysterious illness. The story explores themes of identity, dysfunction, love, and mythology, all set against a dreamlike and atmospheric backdrop in Spain. The narrative is narrated by Sofia, a young woman struggling with her own life while caring for her mother, and the interactions she has with various characters in Spain lead her on a journey of self-discovery and realization.
Today I dropped my laptop on the concrete floor of a bar built on the beach. It was tucked under my arm and slid out of its black rubber sheath (designed like an envelope), landing screen side down. T... - #9
Save:The Nanny by Gilly Macmillan is a gothic mystery thriller that follows Jocelyn Holt as she returns to her childhood home with her daughter after her husband's death. The story unfolds as a human skull is discovered in the lake on the estate, leading to suspicions surrounding the missing nanny from Jo's childhood. Secrets, lies, and deceptions unravel as Jo navigates her strained relationship with her mother and uncovers the truth about the past, with multiple narrators providing different perspectives on the events that transpired.
Jocelyn is disorientated when she wakes up and her mouth is sticky dry. It’s light outside and she feels as if she’s been asleep for a very long time. She studies the hands on her bedside clock and co... - #10
Save:'Not Her Daughter' by Rea Frey is a gripping story that delves into a powerful ethical dilemma involving two main characters, Sarah and Amy. The narrative unfolds through two perspectives and three timelines, before, during, and after the events. The author skillfully portrays the complex emotions and decisions of the characters, leaving readers questioning their own morals and beliefs. The plot is a mix of women's fiction and thriller, with twists that keep the readers engaged throughout the story.
I grip her hand. Dirt clings to her small palm and makes caked half-moons under her nails. I squeeze her against my side, a shield against the drizzle. Her red bow bobs as we move faster down the road...
