Oct 31, 2025

8 books that portray vulnerability and trauma

Aanya Mehta

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Portrays loneliness, past trauma, and the healing power of human connection with warmth and humour.

Source: amazon.in

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng

A family drama revealing the silent burdens, grief, and emotional vulnerabilities hidden behind appearances.

Source: amazon.in

Push by Sapphire

Chronicles the painful experiences of abuse, neglect, and resilience of a young girl navigating an unforgiving world.

Source: amazon.in

Room by Emma Donoghue

Told from a child’s perspective, this novel examines captivity, survival, and the psychological aftermath of trauma.

Source: amazon.in

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

A powerful portrayal of depression, identity struggles, and the societal pressures on women in the 1950s.

Source: amazon.in

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Explores deep trauma, friendship, and the long lasting scars of abuse with unflinching honesty.

Source: amazon.in

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

A memoir about growing up in a deeply dysfunctional family, exploring neglect, poverty, and the resilience needed to overcome trauma.

Source: amazon.in

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Captures adolescent struggles with mental health, abuse, and the search for identity and belonging.

Source: amazon.in

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