In this revelatory book esteemed family therapist Monica McGoldrick explores why families behave as they do using genograms (family trees) to illustrate family patterns. Mapped out over a three-generation span repeated estrangements alliances even divorces and suicides prove more than coincidental. McGoldrick uses the genograms of famous families - including the Kennedys Hepburns Beethovens and Brontes - the discuss the influence of birth order and sibling rivalry family myths and secrets cultural differences couple relationships and the pivotal role of loss. Relevant questions to ask appear at the end of each chapter helping the reader become researcher uncovering information previously withheld misunderstood or overlooked.