Fiction Books That Inspire Our Love for Genealogy

There are a lot of fiction novels that are inspired by family history, genealogy and even DNA. We asked staff for their recommendations of fiction novels that inspire their love for family history. If you find yourself inspired to dig into your own family story our Local History and Genealogy Department staff are here to help. Visit us online at www.kentonlibrary.org/genealogy for more information.

  • The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson

"I chose this book because it tells a good story about life and the struggles often faced in the hollers of Eastern Kentucky. This story has many ups and downs. But it tells an important story about Kentucky and American History. Having family of my own that were farmers and coal miners in rural Pennsylvania. It encourages me to explore the lives of my ancestors. Who could probably share similar stories." - Charles H. at Covington

  • Life after Life by Kate Atkinson

"I picked this book as it examines the family history of a woman who, after making different choices or having different experiences, changes the family dynamic and even local and world history." Debi B. at Covington

  • Gilead by Marilynne Robinson

"Gilead is the first novel in Robinson’s series that follows an intergenerational Midwest family from the Civil War to the 20th century as they grapple with faith and family secrets." Casey B. at Covington

  • Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire

"I picked this book because it really digs into the lineage of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and how her family shaped the socio-political landscape of Oz (before and after Dorothy dropped in)." – Cierra E. at Covington

  • Finding Junie Kim by Ellen Oh &
  • The Length of a String by Elissa Brent Weissman
"These middle grades novels have strong family history and generational storylines." Sam B. at Covington

 













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