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Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Dani Shapiro

Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love, Dani Shapiro discovers through a DNA test that the man who raised her is not her biological father, leading her on a journey to uncover her origins, including the truth of her conception via artificial insemination and the identity of her biological father, Ben Walden. As she navigates the emotional and ethical complexities surrounding this revelation, Shapiro ultimately comes to terms with her family history and forms new connections, while also reflecting on the broader implications of genetic testing and parenthood.

Emotional

Contemplative

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.0

51,764 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dani Shapiro's Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love has been praised for its compelling and introspective exploration of identity and family secrets. Many found Shapiro's prose both poetic and poignant. However, some critics noted a tendency toward overwrought emotion. Overall, it is a profound and thought-provoking memoir that resonates deeply.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love?

Readers who found solace in J.D. Vance's Hillbilly Elegy or intrigue in Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat, Pray, Love will relish Dani Shapiro's Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love. This memoir appeals to those captivated by personal identity, familial secrets, and the emotional complexities of uncovering one's true heritage.

4.0

51,764 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Dani Shapiro

An American writer and podcast host known for her memoirs and novels, who navigates complex family revelations and her personal identity.

Dani's Orthodox Jewish father who comes from a prominent family, marked by multiple marriages and secrets about Dani's origins.

Dani's supportive teenage son with an interest in filmmaking.

The daughter of Paul from his first marriage, once considered Dani’s half-sister, with whom she does not share a close bond.

Dani's husband, a journalist, and filmmaker whose interest in genealogy leads to unexpected discoveries about Dani's family history.

Dani's mother, who sought fertility treatments and had a complicated and challenging relationship with Dani.

A fertility doctor who assisted Dani's parents with conception using pioneering techniques.

A thoracic doctor and Dani's biological father, whose past donation as a medical student plays a significant role in Dani's story.

Ben’s wife, who welcomes Dani into their family while adjusting to the changes her presence brings.

Dani's half-sister, who reaches out to Dani and shares similarities in personality and interests.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 2010s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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