15 Fiction Books That Support Mental Health: Diverse Reads for Therapy and Healing
Here’s a curated list of 15 fiction books written by diverse authors, minorities, and women, that can be particularly helpful to people in therapy. These novels explore a range of human emotions, personal growth, and mental health issues, offering valuable insights and reflections that can complement the therapy process.
1. "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead
This novel blends historical fiction with magical realism, exploring the harrowing journey of Cora, an enslaved woman seeking freedom via a literal underground railroad. Whitehead's portrayal of trauma, resilience, and the impact of systemic oppression offers a poignant exploration of generational pain and healing. For those in therapy, it helps contextualize the long-term emotional impact of slavery and trauma on identity and relationships.
2. "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi
This novel traces the parallel paths of two half-sisters and their descendants, from the transatlantic slave trade to the present day. Gyasi’s exploration of the deep psychological effects of colonialism, slavery, and displacement on multiple generations is a powerful read for those grappling with family trauma, identity, and legacy. It offers an opportunity for reflection on how historical trauma affects personal and collective identity.
3. "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker
Through the life of Celie, a Black woman enduring abuse and hardship, The Color Purple explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the journey toward self-love. The book provides a profound narrative on reclaiming agency, finding healing through sisterhood, and challenging oppressive systems. It’s invaluable for readers navigating trauma recovery, self-worth, and empowerment, especially in relation to race and gender.
4. "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan
This novel weaves together the stories of four Chinese-American immigrant families and the generational struggles of their daughters. The Joy Luck Club explores themes of cultural identity, mother-daughter relationships, and the psychological impact of living between two cultures. For those in therapy, it offers a reflection on cultural conflict, familial expectations, and the ways in which emotional struggles can be passed down through generations.
5. "The House on Mango Street" by Sandra Cisneros
Esperanza Cordero, a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago, navigates issues of identity, social class, and gender through vivid, poetic prose. This coming-of-age story touches on finding one’s voice, grappling with self-image, and seeking empowerment in the face of adversity. It’s an excellent read for those in therapy, as it offers a powerful metaphor for personal transformation and breaking free from limiting circumstances.
6. "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy
In this Booker Prize-winning novel, Roy explores the lives of fraternal twins Estha and Rahel, growing up in post-colonial India and dealing with family trauma, love, and loss. The book delves deeply into the lasting psychological effects of societal divisions, forbidden love, and personal tragedy. It’s a poignant reflection for those in therapy who are processing complex family dynamics and the pain of unhealed wounds.
7. "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston
This novel tells the story of Janie Crawford, a Black woman searching for love, identity, and fulfillment in a world that constantly seeks to define her. Hurston’s exploration of self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of voice and autonomy resonates deeply with anyone confronting issues of self-worth or identity. It’s a classic story for those looking to understand the impact of relationships and personal growth.
8. "Beloved" by Toni Morrison
In Beloved, Morrison explores the haunting psychological effects of slavery on Sethe, an escaped slave who is tormented by the ghost of her deceased daughter. The novel is an intense meditation on grief, trauma, motherhood, and the quest for freedom. For those in therapy, it offers a compelling exploration of how past trauma can manifest in the present and the importance of confronting painful memories for healing.
9. "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi
A modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice set in Brooklyn, Zoboi’s novel delves into themes of cultural identity, gentrification, and self-worth through the eyes of Zuri, a Haitian-American teenager. The book addresses issues of class, race, and family dynamics, providing insights into the pressures of identity and belonging. It’s a relatable read for those in therapy exploring their place within societal structures and family expectations.
10. "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz
This novel follows the story of Oscar de León, a Dominican-American young man, and the curses that plague his family across generations. Through humor and tragedy, Díaz examines themes of identity, family dysfunction, and the psychological weight of historical trauma. It’s an insightful read for those in therapy working through generational trauma and the impact of culture on personal development.
11. "The Mothers" by Brit Bennett
Set in a Black church community, this novel explores the lives of Nadia, Luke, and Aubrey, whose choices about love, loss, and forgiveness ripple throughout their lives and the community. Bennett delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the complex dynamics of relationships, especially in the face of tragedy. It offers deep reflections for those in therapy grappling with personal forgiveness, community, and identity.
12. "The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd
This historical novel follows the intertwined lives of Sarah Grimké, an abolitionist and feminist, and her slave, Hetty. The book explores themes of personal growth, courage, and the fight for freedom, while also examining the psychological trauma caused by slavery. For readers in therapy, it offers a profound meditation on oppression, resilience, and the importance of voice in reclaiming one’s narrative.
13. "Sula" by Toni Morrison
Morrison’s novel about two childhood friends, Sula and Nel, explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the complexities of identity and choices. It offers insights into the emotional consequences of individual choices, especially within close relationships. For those in therapy, this book prompts reflection on themes of loyalty, forgiveness, and personal accountability in shaping our lives.
14. "The Sun Down Motel" by Simone St. James
A gripping mix of mystery and horror, The Sun Down Motel follows Carly Kirk’s investigation into the eerie disappearance of her aunt Viv, a case tied to a haunted motel. This novel combines trauma, loss, and uncovering family secrets with elements of psychological suspense. For those exploring trauma recovery or family histories in therapy, this book can resonate deeply with those seeking closure or understanding of the past.
15. "Milkman" by Anna Burns
Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, Milkman follows an unnamed young woman as she navigates the pressures of her community and personal relationships. The novel delves into the mental toll of living in a politically charged environment and how societal and personal trauma intersect. For readers working through social anxiety, trauma, and cultural influences in therapy, Milkman offers powerful insights into survival and identity.
These books represent diverse voices and narratives that explore mental health, trauma, resilience, and self-discovery. Whether confronting historical pain, cultural identity, or personal relationships, these novels offer valuable lessons for readers in therapy, helping them to better understand their own emotions, challenges, and journeys toward healing.
If you are interested in furthering your book collection and traveling the path to healing at the same time, reach out to schedule with Morgan Whittaker LCSW. The power of narration plays a huge part in not only how your story is told, but in how you narrate your life for yourself. She would love to help you become the main character you have always wanted to be.
