Books Like...
Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson is a hauntingly beautiful novel that follows the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are abandoned by a series of family members, leading them to be cared for by their eccentric and remote aunt, Sylvie. Set in the small Far West town of Fingerbone, the story unfolds against the backdrop of a glacial lake, where past tragedies have occurred within their family. The narrative explores themes of neglect, depression, eccentricity, and living outside societal norms, all while emphasizing the atmosphere and the disconnect between society and those who exist on its fringes. The writing style is described as lyrical, poetic, and meditative, focusing more on thoughts and descriptions rather than action or dialogue.
Housekeeping is a slow, introspective coming-of-age story that delves deep into the complexities of familial relationships, abandonment, and individual choices. The novel paints a vivid picture of Ruth and Lucille's unconventional upbringing, first under the care of their grandmother and great aunts, and later under the enigmatic Sylvie. Through evocative prose and morally ambiguous characters, the book explores the themes of loss, transience, and the search for identity in a world that often feels disconnected and isolating.
If you liked Housekeeping, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
"Gilead" by Marilynne Robinson is a contemplative and introspective story told through the perspective of an elderly preacher, Reverend John Ames, who is writing a letter to his young son as he nears the end of his life. The plot delves into themes of family dynamics, spirituality, forgiveness, and the passage of time in a small town setting. The writing style is described as slow-paced, meditative, and poetic, with a focus on philosophical musings and reflections on life's complexities.
I TOLD YOU LAST NIGHT THAT I MIGHT BE GONE sometime, and you said, Where, and I said, To be with the Good Lord, and you said, Why, and I said, Because I’m old, and you said, I don’t think you’re old. ... - #2
Denis Johnson's 'Train Dreams' is a novella that delves into the life of Robert Grainier, a day laborer in the Pacific Northwestern US during the early 20th century. The story follows Grainier through various hardships, including the loss of his family in a fire, as he navigates the changing world around him. Johnson's writing style is described as spare, stark, and evocative, capturing the essence of the American West with vivid and detailed imagery.
In the summer of 1917 Robert Grainier took part in an attempt on the life of a Chinese laborer caught, or anyway accused of, stealing from the company stores of the Spokane International Railway in th... - #3
Lila by Marilynne Robinson is a contemplative novel that delves into the life of the titular character, Lila, a woman who has faced neglect, abuse, and struggles throughout her life. The story follows Lila's journey from being rescued as a child by Doll, an itinerant worker, to her unlikely marriage to the elderly Reverend John Ames in the town of Gilead, Iowa. Through a blend of stream of consciousness narrative and flashbacks, the book explores Lila's internal struggles, her complex relationship with Reverend Ames, and her quest for love and redemption amidst a backdrop of poverty, loneliness, and religious contemplation.
The child was just there on the stoop in the dark, hugging herself against the cold, all cried out and nearly sleeping. She couldn’t holler anymore and they didn’t hear her anyway, or they might and t... - #4
Braided Lives by Marge Piercy is a novel that delves into the lives of its characters, particularly Jill, allowing readers to experience their loves and pains on an emotional level. The book explores themes of women's struggles in society, providing a sobering tale that resonates with readers even in the modern era. Piercy's writing style is described as open, real, and intense, with a capacity to convey passion that captivates readers and immerses them in the characters' experiences.
THE DAY BEFORE yesterday was my birthday and Josh boiled two lobsters in seawater and then baked a chocolate cake for the party later, so rich I wanted to eat it in tissue-paper slices. As the sun sho... - #5
Ocean Vuong's 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' is a lyrical and poignant novel that takes the form of a letter from a son to his illiterate immigrant mother. The story delves into themes of identity, family relationships, trauma, and the immigrant experience, all intertwined with beautiful prose and raw emotions. Through the protagonist's reflections on his childhood, sexual awakening, and struggles with loneliness, Vuong paints a vivid picture of survival and resilience in the face of adversity.
The novel is structured as a poetic exploration of the protagonist's life, moving between past and present, weaving together memories, experiences, and emotions. Vuong's writing style is described as dark, lyrical, and atmospheric, evoking visceral emotions and creating a compelling narrative that blurs the lines between fiction and memoir. The book captures the complexities of love, beauty, and the search for home, offering a unique and intimate portrayal of the human experience.
I am writing to reach you—even if each word I put down is one word further from where you are. I am writing to go back to the time, at the rest stop in Virginia, when you stared, horror-struck, at the... - #6
'Their Eyes Were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston is a classic novel that follows the life of Janie Mae Crawford, a black woman living in Florida before World War II. The story delves into Janie's journey of self-discovery, independence, and love through three marriages. The narrative is rich in black vernacular, providing a realistic portrayal of the characters' lives and struggles in early 20th-century America.
The book explores themes of love, independence, race, and gender, offering a poignant reflection on the societal norms and expectations that Janie navigates throughout her life. Through Hurston's poetic prose and vivid imagery, readers are taken on a compelling journey alongside Janie as she strives to assert her identity and find her place in the world.
Ships at a distance have every man’s wish on board. For some they come in with the tide. For others they sail forever on the horizon, never out of sight, never landing until the Watcher turns his eyes... - #7
In 'The Awakening' by Kate Chopin, the story follows Edna Pontellier, a woman who feels trapped by societal expectations and her roles as a wife and mother. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, Edna's awakening leads her to question her own desires and the constraints imposed by society in the 1890s. The novel explores themes of feminism, individuality, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment amidst societal pressures, culminating in a tragic ending that challenges traditional norms.
Set in the idyllic coastal community of 1890s New Orleans, 'The Awakening' delves into the inner turmoil of Edna Pontellier as she grapples with her unfulfilled yearnings and embarks on an illicit liaison that reignites her passions. Through sparse prose and poignant storytelling, Kate Chopin crafts a powerful narrative that challenges societal conventions and explores the complexities of women's roles and desires during a time of rigid social norms.
IT WAS ELEVEN O'CLOCK that night when Mr. Pontellier returned from Klein's hotel. He was in an excellent humor, in high spirits, and very talkative. His entrance awoke his wife, who was in bed and fas... - #8
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a powerful and tragic story that delves into the themes of racial tension, self-hatred, abuse, and societal beauty standards. The narrative follows Pecola Breedlove, a young black girl who longs for blue eyes in the belief that it will make her beautiful and accepted. Set against a backdrop of poverty, racism, and violence, the novel explores the devastating impact of systemic racism and self-loathing on individuals' lives, particularly children growing up in a harsh and uncaring world.
Toni Morrison's writing style in The Bluest Eye is described as astonishing, beautiful, and poetic. She skillfully weaves together intricate details of tragic events and characters, creating a narrative that is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. Through the eyes of children, Morrison paints a stark and painful depiction of the consequences of passive racism, societal indifference, and the longing for acceptance and beauty in a world that often denies it to those who need it the most.
Nuns go by as quiet as lust, and drunken men with sober eyes sing in the lobby of the Greek hotel. Rosemary Villanucci, our next-door friend who lives above her father's cafe, sits in a 1939 Buick eat... - #9
'Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood' by Rebecca Wells is a heartwarming story that delves into the complex relationships between mothers and daughters, as well as the enduring bonds of friendship among women. Set in the Southern United States, the novel follows Siddalee Walker as she navigates her strained relationship with her mother, Vivi, and uncovers the secrets of her mother's past through a scrapbook kept by Vivi and her group of lifelong friends, known as the Ya Yas. The writing style captures the essence of Southern charm and explores themes of forgiveness, love, and female empowerment through flawed yet relatable characters.
Tap-dancing child abuser. That’s what the Sunday New York Times from March 8, 1993, had called Vivi. The pages of the week-old Leisure Arts section lay scattered on the floor next to Sidda as she curl... - #10
"White Oleander" by Janet Fitch follows the tumultuous life of Astrid, a young girl thrown into the foster care system after her mother is imprisoned for murder. The novel delves into the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship, exploring themes of survival, identity, and the harsh realities of life. Through vivid descriptions and a poetic writing style, readers are taken on Astrid's journey through various foster homes, each presenting its own challenges and lessons.
Fitch's storytelling weaves together Astrid's experiences, from her unstable childhood to her struggles in the foster care system, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and captivating. The novel offers a raw and honest portrayal of Astrid's growth and transformation as she navigates through life's hardships, ultimately finding strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
THE SANTA ANAS blew in hot from the desert, shriveling the last of the spring grass into whiskers of pale straw. Only the oleanders thrived, their delicate poisonous blooms, their dagger green leaves....