This Valentine’s Day, let’s shift our focus from romantic love to other forms of affection. Friendship, familial love, and even interspecies bonds are just as worthy of celebration. Why not swap out champagne and roses for a great book? Ditch the romance novels and pick up something that explores non-romantic relationships instead. You might discover stories about women supporting each other, unexpected friendships, or soulful companionship.
While these tales may not be as dramatic or titillating as romantic love stories, they can be just as compelling. In fact, when you remove the romance from the equation, all sorts of beautiful dynamics come to light. I’ve curated a list of books that put non-romantic love at their core. These stories showcase the power of true friendship, interesting family relationships, and networks of support that help characters navigate life’s challenges.
Some even offer humorous takes on love in its many forms. So why not give these anti-romance novels a chance this Valentine’s Day?
Just Kids by Patti Smith
Patti Smith’s memoir Just Kids is a poignant tribute to her lifelong friend and artistic collaborator Robert Mapplethorpe. Written as a promise to him before his passing, the book delves into their intertwined lives as young artists and musicians. As Smith recounts her early years in New York City’s burgeoning punk scene, she weaves a narrative that celebrates not only their creative endeavors but also the passion and intensity of their friendship – which occasionally blossomed into romance.
The result is a deeply moving story that lingers long after you finish reading.
My Sister the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
The unconventional nature of this novel is immediately apparent from its title. On the surface, the premise appears straightforward: Ayoola, Korede’s sister, has a peculiar habit – her boyfriends have a tendency to meet untimely demises under questionable circumstances. As Korede assists Ayoola in disposing of unlucky boyfriend number three, she begins to suspect that her sister might be more than just a mere mortal.
With this revelation, the novel takes an unexpected turn, delving into themes of sibling love and the scars left by past traumas.
OBIT by Victoria Chang
Chang’s collection, OBIT, is an unapologetic yet gentle exploration of the complexities of grief and the depth of a grown child’s love for their parents. This poignant series of poetic obituaries takes readers on a contemplative journey through the highs and lows of loss, often finding moments of humor and reflection along the way. I had the privilege of reading OBIT shortly after losing my father, and it proved to be a powerful tool in helping me process and find solace in the midst of sorrow.
Chang’s mastery of language is on full display, elevating this collection to a new level of poignancy and emotional resonance.
The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina by Zoraida Córdova
The whispers of Orquídea Divina’s alleged witchcraft have long preceded her, with many believing she’ll leave behind a legacy of dark magic when the time comes to bid farewell. As her family gathers at her home in anticipation of her passing, it’s clear that this supposed ‘witch’ has one final trick up her sleeve – but nothing could prepare them for the extraordinary metamorphosis that unfolds.
The unforeseen consequences of Orquídea’s transformation set off a chain reaction among her descendants, forcing them to confront the unbreakable bonds that unite families and the protective forces of love that have been woven into their collective fabric.
Angry Housewives Eating Bon-Bons by Lorna Landvik
The captivating title ‘Angry Housewives Eating Bon-Bons’ immediately drew me in, and I’m thrilled with my decision to pick up the book. This novel masterfully weaves together the lives of five women living in a suburban neighborhood across four decades. As they face the ups and downs of life, their shared love for reading leads them to form a book club that transcends mere literary pursuits, instead becoming a source of comfort, support, and camaraderie.
A warning: be prepared to find yourself inspired to start your own community-based book club after immersing yourself in this heartwarming tale.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
This narrative is a testament to the power of female relationships, woven together through a unique epistolary format featuring letters from Celie to God. The story takes place in the rural South, where Celie faces numerous challenges and hardships that serve as a backdrop for exploring the depth of female friendships. Despite the difficulties presented by ‘hard men’ and a ‘hard world’, these bonds thrive, making this novel a poignant celebration of the human spirit.
Summer in the City of Roses by Michelle Ruiz Keil
In a story that embodies the essence of sibling affection, we find ourselves immersed in the lives of Iph and Orr, an older sister and younger brother duo. Iph, with her tough-as-nails exterior, serves as a striking contrast to Orr’s tender nature. The narrative unfolds when their father decides to take drastic measures to ‘correct’ Orr’s sensitivity by paying for his kidnapping and subsequent enrollment in a behavior-modification bootcamp.
As the story progresses, a mesmerizing array of events unfold, weaving together the magical essence of fairytales with the poignant exploration of sibling love in its most authentic form.
How Much of These Hills is Gold by C Pam Zhang
In this captivating western narrative, Asian American siblings Lucy and Sam embark on a poignant journey through the Old West in search of their place in the world. At its core, the story explores the complexities of love – self-love, familial love, and the power of forgiveness. As they navigate their individual struggles and adventures, often together and sometimes apart, Lucy and Sam grapple with the weight of their family’s history.
Zhang’s evocative prose masterfully weaves together these threads, creating an unforgettable reading experience that lingers long after the story concludes.
Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi
In Helen Oyeyemi’s enchanting novel, the intricate dance of a mother-daughter bond is set against the backdrop of a mystical realm shrouded in mystery. At its core lies Gretel, an enigmatic character consumed by her passion for gingerbread. This modern retelling of classic fairytales masterfully weaves together themes of discovery, secrets, and the rekindling of love as Perdita embarks on a perilous journey to find her mother’s childhood friend.
As she navigates treacherous landscapes, her mother is drawn into the adventure, leading to unexpected revelations and a deepening understanding between the two.
On Cats by Doris Lessing
In this charming memoir, Doris Lessing weaves a tapestry of stories about the feline companions that have captivated her heart over the years. As she reflects on the distinctive personalities and quirks of each cat, her words reveal not only her profound affection for these enigmatic creatures but also the profound impact they’ve had on her life.
This intimate volume is a poignant exploration of the special bond between humans and cats, one that transcends words and speaks directly to our shared experiences and emotions.
Dog Songs by Mary Oliver
In contrast, dog enthusiasts may find solace in Mary Oliver’s poetry collection, which also explores the unique bond between humans and dogs. Like Lessing’s contemplation on felines, Oliver’s tribute to canines is a heartfelt celebration of the profound connection that exists between species. The ways in which dogs shaped Oliver’s world serve as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of our relationships with animal companions.
This tender collection beautifully illustrates the profound influence our furry friends can have on our lives.
A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
This captivating novel tells the poignant story of a Japanese teenager struggling with the aftermath of bullying. Her Zen Buddhist grandmother plays a significant role in her journey towards healing, as does a woman who discovers the girl’s diary washed up on the shores of the Pacific Northwest. The narrative deftly weaves together journal entries, environmental commentary, and explorations of writer’s block and small-town dynamics.
As the story unfolds, it reveals a powerful tale of love – the stranger’s compassion for the young woman who poured out her pain in the diary, the teenager’s devotion to her grandmother, and the man’s profound affection for the earth that sustains us.
So Far From God by Ana Castillo
In this poignant novel, four sisters and their mother are the central figures in a story set against the backdrop of New Mexico. Sofia’s journey is deeply personal, with her symbolically named daughters – Fe, Esperanza, Caridad, and ‘la Loca’ – embodying the bonds of sisterhood and maternal love. While romance does make an appearance, the narrative’s true focus lies in the power of women supporting one another amidst the challenges of patriarchy, racism, and hardship.
The novel masterfully explores the intricate networks of relationships between these strong-willed women, highlighting their resilience and capacity for love.
The Magical Language of Others: A Memoir by E.J. Koh
In this poignant memoir, Koh’s introspective journey delves into her complex relationship with her mother. The discovery of a treasure trove of letters written by her mother in Korean, spanning years ago, sparks a profound exploration into the motivations behind her parents’ decision to leave their children in California while they returned to South Korea.
As Koh, now an adult, translates these poignant missives, she uncovers the rich histories and experiences of both her mother and grandmother, weaving together a tender tapestry of family, love, and poetry that transcends generations.
The Home Place: Memoirs of a Colored Man’s Love Affair with Nature by J. Drew Lanham
The debut novel, The Home Place, is a rich tapestry woven from threads of history, racism, family dynamics, and the author’s deep connection with nature. This complex narrative explores Lanham’s experiences growing up in the rural South through his profound appreciation for the natural world. If you’re familiar with Aimee Nezhukumatathil’s lyrical prose in World of Wonders, you may find The Home Place to be a similarly captivating read.
How the Penguins Saved Veronica by Hazel Prior
The concept of a book about an eccentric 85-year-old woman who embarks on an unexpected journey to Antarctica to learn about penguins might seem quirky, but it’s precisely this unconventional premise that makes the story so compelling. Veronica, a wealthy and determined individual, is driven by a desire to understand her own legacy, specifically who to leave her fortune to. As she inserts herself into the lives of unsuspecting scientists in Antarctica, chaos ensues.
However, beneath the humor lies a poignant exploration of Veronica’s past, as childhood journal entries and long-lost relationships come to the forefront.
Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala
The novel is a heartwarming exploration of friendship, family, and one woman’s poignant journey to rediscover her hometown and learn to love it. Lila reluctantly returns to her childhood home after her ex-boyfriend, a local food critic, meets his untimely demise while dining at the family restaurant she now manages.
As Lila and her best friend take on an amateur investigation to clear the family business’ name, the story seamlessly weaves together threads of potential love interests with the charming character-driven narratives of Lila’s aunties and closest friend. Fans of the book will be delighted to know that a sequel, Homicide and Halo-Halo, has recently been published.
Pax by Sarah Pennypacker
Pax, a heartwarming middle-grade read, transcends age boundaries, resonating deeply with adults as well. The narrative revolves around Pax, a fox raised by Peter, a young boy. When Peter’s father deploys to war, he is forced to release Pax into the wild, leaving Peter feeling abandoned. This poignant event sparks an epic quest for Peter and Pax to reunite amidst the chaos of war-torn lands.
Along their journey, Peter forms unexpected bonds with a feisty old woman, while Pax finds solace in a new family of foxes. The story’s universal themes and fable-like prose evoke parallels with Paulo Coelho’s timeless classic, The Alchemist, reminding us that hope and resilience can bridge even the most daunting distances.
The Traveling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa
There’s something inherently captivating about stories narrated by felines. For me, no tale captures this essence better than the journey shared between Nana, a curious cat, and his human companion Satoru. As they embark on a road trip to an undisclosed destination, their bond grows stronger. However, it’s not just the miles accumulated that deepen their connection – the true purpose behind their adventure slowly begins to reveal itself.
This poignant tale delves into the extraordinary symbiosis between a cat and his human, weaving together threads of love, loss, and the quiet resilience necessary for navigating life’s unexpected twists and turns.
The Friend by Sigrid Nunez
In conclusion, it’s only fitting that we end this list with Nunez’s poignant novel, aptly titled to reflect its unexpected yet powerful narrative. The story revolves around a woman who finds herself at the forefront of an emotional maelstrom after her best friend succumbs to suicide, leaving behind their loyal canine companion, Apollo. As she navigates the labyrinth of grief, Apollo becomes more than just a furry friend – he becomes a source of comfort and solace.
Despite friends’ well-intentioned advice to abandon the dog, fearing it will lead to her eviction, the narrator forms an unbreakable bond with Apollo, transforming their lives in ways that defy explanation. Nunez’s masterful storytelling weaves together a rich tapestry of love in its many forms, leaving readers moved and contemplative.
Can’t get enough love? Check out these posts on non-romantic love books:
Japanese literature often explores the complexities of tenderness, particularly in its portrayal of relationships between the ‘self’ and the ‘other’. This theme is skillfully woven throughout many celebrated books. If you’re interested in delving into these thought-provoking stories, consider exploring works that celebrate adult friendships or gal pal bonds on Galentine’s Day.
For instance, there are nine exceptional books for adults that thoughtfully examine the intricacies of friendship, and twelve female-centric books that offer unique perspectives on this special bond.