“Siblings: Love, Loyalty, and Lawsuits – The Messy, Magnificent World of Brotherly and Sisterly Bonds”
Siblings. They can be your best friends, your worst enemies, or just that annoying person who always steals your favorite shirt. From the Marx Brothers to George Eliot’s The Mill on the Floss, siblings have a way of stealing the show in literature. Zadie Smith even said that brothers and sisters are the first evidence and last confirmation of love. But let’s face it, sometimes they’re just evidence of who ate the last slice of pizza without asking.
In the world of books, there’s no shortage of stories that explore the unique and often complicated bonds between siblings. One such book is The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, a memoir that shines a light on the tumultuous upbringing of Walls and her three siblings. It’s a raw and honest account that shows just how strong the bond between siblings can be, even in the face of adversity. And let’s be real, if you can survive sharing a bathroom with someone for 18 years, you can survive anything.
Then there’s The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt, a darkly comedic Western that follows two assassin brothers on a quest. Their witty banter and unwavering loyalty to each other make for a captivating read, proving that even the most dysfunctional families can stick together when it counts. Who knew hitmen could be so relatable?
For those who prefer a more classic take on sibling relationships, there’s Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. This timeless tale follows the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and the ups and downs of sisterhood. It’s a reminder that no matter how much you fight with your siblings, they’ll always be there for you when it matters most. Just maybe don’t borrow their clothes without asking first.
In the realm of fiction, Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng delves into the complexities of sibling relationships within a Chinese-American family. Ng’s poignant storytelling captures the nuances of sibling dynamics with depth and emotion, reminding us that even the smallest actions can have a big impact on those closest to us. So maybe think twice before stealing your sibling’s dessert next time.
And finally, there’s My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult, a heart-wrenching story about a young girl who sues her parents for medical emancipation after being conceived to save her older sister’s life. This thought-provoking novel forces us to confront the sacrifices and complexities of sibling love, showing that sometimes the greatest act of love is knowing when to let go.
So whether your siblings are your partners in crime, your sounding board, or just that person who always eats the last cookie, remember that the bond between siblings is a powerful thing. And hey, if all else fails, at least you’ll always have someone to blame for your questionable fashion choices.
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Source: The Guardian
URL: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2024/apr/11/five-of-the-best-books-about-siblings