Writing About Found Family: Tips and Tricks

Kayjah Taylor
Sep 13
2 min read

I am in LOVE with the topic of found family, as a firm believer that blood is not always thicker than water.

My book, Never-Ending Nightmares, relies heavily on the topic of found family. My characters, despite being vastly different, gather for a common goal. They bond, heal, and build a uniquely strong connection.

Found family is a powerful and common theme, so let's break down how to bring it to life in your story.

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/overhead-shot-of-a-group-of-friends-lying-down-on-top-of-a-billiard-table-6254372/

Why Does Your Character Need Family?

Usually, found family resonates strongly because your character is missing a connection with the people in their life (or lack thereof). Make sure your character has that lack of connection in your story, as this will lead them to their found family!

Some examples of this include: a character estranged from their parents, a character who feels isolated in their community, or a character who craves acceptance.

Build Bonds Through Struggle

This doesn't necessarily need to be a trauma bond, but in hard times, bonds manifest quickly. Put your character through challenges that force them to seek help. You can use the small moments in between for moments of vulnerability, trust, and establish loyalty. Don't be afraid to show the conflict your characters are going through! It's all part of the process and will help your readers feel a deeper connection with your characters and their bond.

Mundane Moments Make an Impact!

Let's go back to what I referred to earlier about the small moments in between struggles. This is where your found family will be established and shine! These are moments to slow down the narrative and show how your found family interacts. These small moments could be your characters sharing a meal, bickering, teasing, or comforting each other. Each intimate detail counts!

Have Your Characters Complement Each Other

While they can literally compliment each other with words, this is meant for your character's differing personalities to mesh well together. If one character gives, let the other one take. Each character should have something they offer to the group, however small.

For example, give your characters different roles. If one is a protector, make another comic relief. If one is closed off, make one persistent with their questioning. Different personalities contribute to the whole.

Don't Rush!

Everyone needs time to build an emotional connection with others. Give your characters time to get to know each other. They should start awkward and possibly mistrustful of each other. In some cases, they could be hostile toward each other. Give them time to slowly peel their tough exteriors, like an onion (yes, I'm making a Shrek reference). This will help their bond feel earned.

At the end of the day, I think of found family as the Avengers. They are bound to fight, to share, and to figure out a solution for a common problem. At the end of the day, they still go to each other to feel at home.

Thank you as always for reading, and happy writing!