The TV Premiere of Julia Samuel’s “Every Family Has a Story” (video)

Newmag’s Editor-in-Chief, Gnel Nalbandyan, highlighted the core themes of the "Every Family Has a Story" book:

“Love, challenges, and family dynamics are passed down through generations. The role of grandparents is especially significant. The author explores what constitutes a family and discusses various family models—nuclear families, large families, and even those without parents. Samuel delves into these structures and their inherent challenges.”

Nalbandyan noted that family models have evolved over time:

“We no longer live in multigenerational households under one roof. The idea of family has changed. For example, in the 1970s, living in a rented house often raised eyebrows, but today, many young families live separately, reshaping societal norms around family life.”

The book includes graphs and analyses, positioning it as both a family therapy guide and a resource for specialists. Translator Samvel Khachatryan explained that the book shares the stories of eight diverse families, differing in their ethnic, cultural, and social backgrounds:

“Despite their differences, all families share a common thread—they face trials and challenges. A key theme of the book is the importance of communication. Families must talk openly about their problems. By listening to and accepting each other as they are, they can navigate difficulties together.”

One of the families in the book endured the Holocaust, and Samuel examines how that trauma has affected subsequent generations. Khachatryan noted:

“Even generations that haven’t directly experienced the trauma retain a lingering fear in their collective memory. For instance, food holds symbolic importance for one such family, regardless of when or where they live.”

Julia Samuel, an expert in grief counseling and creator of a grief support app, offers practical advice in the book for overcoming loss. Psychologist Lilit Tovmasyan, one of the book’s early readers, praised its guidance:

“Samuel explores how families cope with grief. While some manage to overcome loss and thrive, others may crumble under its weight. Her key advice is communication—speaking openly about trauma and pain helps individuals process and heal.”

Tovmasyan added:

“The family is a child’s first social environment, shaping their initial experiences of warmth, love, and the world around them.”

“Every Family Has a Story” is now available on newmag.am and in bookstores.