Francine Falk-Allen Discusses Historical Fiction Book

San Rafael resident Francine Falk-Allen's new historical fiction book, 'A Wolff in the Family', is inspired by shocking family revelations about her grandmother's tumultuous life, including her husband's infidelity and the placement of their children in an orphanage. The narrative blends real family history with fictional elements, capturing the emotional struggles of her grandmother Naomi, who faced abandonment and societal challenges. Falk-Allen's research began with an unexpected comment from her Aunt Dorothy at a memorial service, revealing hidden family secrets about their past. Meanwhile, sibling abuse, often overlooked in discussions of family violence, is highlighted as a prevalent issue, with reports indicating it occurs significantly more frequently than spousal or parental abuse. The complexities of familial relationships, including the impact of inheritance and trauma across generations, are explored in various literary contexts, such as Gothic horror. Finally, author Karl Ove Knausgaard's candid memoirs have sparked both admiration and controversy, illustrating the profound effects of storytelling on family dynamics.