Gemma, Connor, Roddy, and Jude's childhood, childhood, led them not speaking to each other as adults for a long time. They each received a text asking them to meet her in a small town in North Dakota. They finally agreed to go and when they arrived, they stayed at an inn and then went to a cabin in the woods. It was snowing when they went to the cabin and after arriving they lost power, and had lots of snow. They played board games, and discovered that the rent agreement said there were sleds. They found them and went sledding, it brought back memories, both good and bad.
They were stranded there longer than planned and finally started talking. There was so much to work through, each saw the same things, differently because of how they saw everything. It leads to understanding, secrets were revealed, and like their living situation, they had to find a way to get through it. It was interesting reading, the baggage they each carried, but being there, helped them to face the baggage, and start to move forward.
They each had so much to work through, and they did, and they made it out of the woods and back to the small town they started with. It was only a few days, but so much happened, that it was a fast read that captured my attention.
I received an ARC from Ballantine Books through NetGalley.

Oh, I am so glad that Jen E. Smith is back with more adult fiction! I loved this family drama, filled with complex characters and unexpected emotional twists and turns. Smith's writing feels at once nostalgic and modern to me; she writes the sort of books you can gobble up in an afternoon, sitting in the sun, sipping a cold drink...but she also explores the complicated dynamics between loved ones (and between our current and past selves) thoroughly and thought-provokingly. A real treat.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Ballentine for providing me with an egalley of this book to read and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I've been a fan of Jennifer E. Smith for a long time. Her YA books really are great and I was excited when she decided to take a dive into the adult world. I really enjoyed the Unsinkable Gretta James and was excited when I was approved to read this new title early!
This book is about family and it's ups and downs. The crises family goes through together and apart. The rifts that are made and then healed through time and space. It's an emotional journey of a family finding itself again and realizing how much they all need each other despite the secrets they've kept and the mistakes they made. Despite the title and fun cover, there are some very heavy subjects addressed in this book. Smith does so with care, honesty, and, above all, kindness.
Smith presents us with four siblings who follow completely different life paths from soccer star, to movie star, to well known author, to every day marketing strategist. Three years ago they stopped speaking to one another, despite having been close all their lives. Despite having been raised more or less by their oldest sister because their parents were physically and emotionally unavailable. There's so much trauma they have all endured over the years dealing with parents who just were not there. The bond they share truly is unbreakable, despite the distance they put between them.
Each character has a very unique story and Smith does a wonderful job developing them and showing who they are.
Gemma, the oldest, who is trying for a baby at 43 and not sure she would ever really make a good mother. Connor, the author who shot to stardom telling a tale that rather closely resembles the story of his family's life. Roddy, the star soccer player who is aging out of the sport and trying for one last time to be known, despite the rift it puts between him and his partner. And, finally, Jude, Roddy's twin and the famous movie start who has always been rather closed off with what is going on in her life but who organizes a trip to bring the family back together and put all her cards on the table. Smith uses each character to tell us not only about themselves, but about their family and the ups and downs that have been the Endicott's. I enjoyed hearing from each unique character; seeing the story from these different points of view made it whole.
What begins as a trip to bring the family back together, quickly devolves into a weekend of drama when they are snowed in at a cabin with no electricity. The story unravels showing us both the present and the past. Smith builds on their relationships through the flashbacks. And also gives us insight into the secrets all the siblings are holding close to their hearts.
The story is an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end. It started off a bit slow for me as Smith built the world and showed us who each character was but it picked up once all the siblings were finally together and their stories started to unfold. I had moments where I was laughing out loud and moments were the tears flowed freely. It was definitely a trip worth taking. And the ending was done nicely. I love that Smith didn't tie everything up into a neat little package, That there was still trauma for the siblings to process and an understanding that they always needed to be there for each other no matter what. Smith creates believable characters who drive a poignant and touching story through a nostalgic journey, steal your heart, and make you trust in the power of the family bond.

I have been on a family drama kick, and this book was next in line. The siblings and the story are heartwarming. I really felt for these characters are all the hardships they endured, especially with an unreliable mother.

It was a quick read, full of drama, ups and downs. The flashbacks and alternating points of view added to the story! It kept me intrigued and wanting more.

Life for the Endicott siblings Gemma, Connor, Roddy and Jude has had its ups and downs. Despite having an absentee father and a free-wheeling mother who took them on road trips all over the country every summer, they managed to stick together. But their once-strong family bond, weakened from disappointment, feelings of betrayal, and loss, seems on the verge of breaking altogether. Relationships are strained in a disaster that ends the summer trips and their relationship with their mother; Connor's award-winning book hits a little too close to home, and finally, their father passes away from a heart attack. The siblings have never been farther apart. So when they get a message from Jude to meet in North Dakota (of all places), they drop plans to make it work.
What follows is a weekend in a snowstorm that pushes the siblings towards reconciliation, even if they're kicking and screaming all the way.

This is a narrative about the present and the past; Smith weaves the story together delicately to preserve character and plot. I found myself rooting for all the Endicotts as they attempted to be honest and forgive themselves and each other. This is a tearjerker, so be prepared.

Many thanks to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for access to the ARC. Opinions stated herein are my own, and I don't get compensation for my reviews.

This was really cute! I really enjoyed the sibling dynamic of this novel. I was a bit confused by the multiple timelines but once I got that under control, I really enjoyed the novel. I think all of the characters were written incredibly well which doesn't happen often.

Fun for the Whole Family is a poignant exploration of family, loss, and the enduring power of sibling bonds. The narrative revolves around the Endicott siblings Jude, Roddy, Gemma and Connor who are brought together after 3 years of estrangement.

Reminders of the past, triggered by shared experiences and childhood traditions of Jude, Roddy, Gemma and Connor add layers of depth to the characters' interactions. The dynamic between the siblings is particularly well-developed. Each character is distinct, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and unresolved issues. Their reunion in South Dakota, spurred by Jude's initiative after three years of estrangement, sets the stage for a journey of reconciliation.

What truly resonated with me was the author's ability to capture the complex emotions of sibling relationships. Jennifer E. Smith has masterfully navigated the shifting perspectives of childhood versus adulthood as explored with past & present chapters.
The intense emotions each of them felt and how it mirrors my own. Even though my experiences are very different than the Endicotts’ one thing remains the same, and that is as a child we think differently and we see things differently versus as adults with mature, clear minds. This universal experience of re-evaluating our past through a mature lens is central to the story's emotional impact.

The author beautifully portrays the enduring bonds of siblinghood and the importance of best friends, illustrating that even after periods of separation, these relationships can be rekindled.

*Very Well Written
*Relatable Themes
*Character-Driven Narrative
*Emotional Depth

A captivating book with rich themes perfect for a book club discussion!

I loved Fun for the Whole Family!

The storytelling was phenomenal, the characters, family dynamics, the secrets, and reunion. The novel follows four siblings- Gemma, Connor, Roddy, and Jude who reconnect. I felt connected and invested in the characters. This story uses multiple timelines to build the characters and their stories. I also really enjoyed the premise of visiting new states every summer with the goal of visiting all 50 states.

I had never read a book by Jennifer E. Smith, but now, I want to devour her other novels. This will probably be in my top five books for the year! Run to pick up this novel on April 8.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the arc.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine for the ARC of Fun for the Whole Family - this is a five star read!

Jennifer E. Smith delivers lovable family chaos, dysfunction, and heartfelt moments in Fun for the Whole Family, a novel that beautifully explores sibling bonds, secrets, and second chances. Told through multiple POVs and timelines, the story is so easy to follow and completely immersive.

The Endicott siblings haven’t spoken in years—until a surprise invitation pulls them back together for a reunion filled with old wounds, tough conversations, and unexpected revelations. As they navigate their complicated past and uncertain futures, their messy, imperfect love for one another shines through.

I laughed, cried, and felt all the emotions, which, to me, makes for the best kind of book. I loved everything about this one—the rich character development, the emotional depth, and the nostalgia of road trips and family traditions.

This is a book that lingers long after the final page. Don’t miss it! Add this to your TBR now—it comes out April 8!

“Fun for the Whole Family” by Jennifer E. Smith is the story of four adult siblings (a famous movie star, an aging professional soccer player, a novelist, and a sister with an ordinary job), meeting after a three-year period of not speaking to each other. Growing up, their lives were disrupted every summer when their mother would return home and take them on a road trip with the goal of seeing every state in the country.

I really wanted to like this book because the story seemed so fun. But, to be honest, I found the book jumped back and forth in time too much and I became disinterested in the story. I found my mind wandering while reading and unable to get into the story. I feel like this book could’ve been so much more than what it was. I was kind of disappointed in it.

Many thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.

I loved this story of the four Endicott siblings - it was moving (definitely have some tissues handy), heartwarming and very real. I felt like I really knew each of the siblings - the author did a great job of developing each of their characters and making you connect to them. Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC.

Jennifer E. Smith wrote from her heart while capturing the messy love that it means to be a sibling in Fun for the Whole Family. The story captures the lives of the Endicott siblings coming together after an incident kept them apart and during their tumultuous childhood. It explores what it means to survive a broken home, sacrifices we make for those we love, what it means to be extraordinary, and the power of coming back together with forgiveness.

Smith's writing reminds me of a more modern Nicholas Sparks- it evokes emotion while exploring the beauty of humanity. It's timeless and will touch everyone who reads it.

As a woman who grew up with 3 sisters and one bathroom, I can say that the relationships between the siblings are perfectly complex. They all have stories about squabbles they had in their childhood, memories of antics, the heartbreak of moving far away from each other as we age and go to college and work, and how complicated it feels to maintain those relationships at a distance.

The story was simply beautiful and well paced. Out of all of the extraordinary Enidcotts, I think Gemma is the most extraordinary of them all. I would recommend this to anyone who is missing a sibling, feels lost in life, or simply wants to feel that sense of family.

4.25 stars

I absolutely adore this book!

A heartwarming family drama filled with banter and emotions! Fun for the Whole Family was such an amazing read, the characters were great - real, raw, and relatable. You don't get to choose your family and sibling relationships can often times be hard yet love always wins. You will fall in love with this family through all their ups and downs, definitely worth a read!

To start, I’d like to extend my thanks to Jennifer E. Smith, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and NetGalley for the privilege of being able to read an advanced copy of Fun for the Whole Family. I’ll be sharing my review on Amazon, Goodreads, and Barnes & Noble upon the book’s release.

Fun for the Whole Family is an emotionally rich story about forgiveness, family, and the unbreakable—if sometimes frayed—bonds between siblings. Jennifer E. Smith has crafted a narrative that is both tender and honest, exploring the complexities of love, regret, and the messy beauty of family dynamics. At its heart are the Endicott siblings: Gemma, Roddy, Connor, and Jude. Each is vividly drawn, with their own struggles, flaws, and redeeming qualities, making it impossible not to feel deeply connected to their journeys.

The story begins when Jude, the youngest and most enigmatic sibling, summons her brothers and sister to a remote cabin in North Dakota. What follows is a heartfelt, often humorous, and occasionally painful reckoning with their shared past and individual present. The forced proximity of the cabin—amplified by a snowstorm that traps them together—creates the perfect setting for raw, unfiltered conversations and long-buried secrets to surface. Smith’s standout ability to balance humor with emotional depth is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The banter between the siblings feels really authentic and reminiscent of the way real families tease, argue, and ultimately love one another, even when it’s complicated.

The use of multiple perspectives is another standout feature, and it allowed me, as a reader, to see the story through each sibling’s eyes. This narrative choice not only kept the pacing fresh but also deepened my understanding of their individual struggles and growth. As someone with siblings myself, I found the portrayal of their relationships incredibly relatable. Smith captures that unique blend of love, frustration, and loyalty that defines sibling bonds, especially as adults navigating their own lives while tethered to a shared history. What resonated most with me was the novel’s exploration of forgiveness and healing. The Endicotts’ journey is a poignant reminder that family is never perfect, but it’s often worth fighting for. By the end, I was left reflecting on my own relationships and the things that truly matter in the long run.

If you’re a fan of character-driven family sagas with a perfect blend of humor and heart, Fun for the Whole Family is a must-read. Fans of authors like Ann Patchett, Ann Napolitano, or Coco Mellors—or anyone who enjoys Jennifer E. Smith’s previous works—will find this book deeply satisfying.

Major Tropes & Themes:

- siblings reuniting
- family secrets
- found family
- snowstorm/trapped together
- multiple perspectives
- flashbacks
- forgiveness, healing, and growth
- family bonds
- shared history vs. personal identity

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars!

“Fun for the Whole Family” by Jennifer E. Smith
Secrets, Memories, and Forgiveness
For myself this was a ‘keep the tissue box handy’ reading adventure. This is a very well told story that kept me turning the pages well after it was time to be getting a good night’s sleep. If the story’s description caught your attention; then you will most likely enjoy your time within this story, too. Happy Reading ! !

Wow, what a book. I’ll be thinking about this book for some time. This was such a good story, so original. Really enjoyed hearing from all the siblings and at different years. Really enjoyed it.

*I received a copy of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this opportunity*

The Extraordinary Endicotts have all achieved greatness in their own right:

Gemma... the oldest sibling, she provided stability and love for her younger siblings while their parents struggled in their own ways. However, she and her husband have officially taken the leap into parenthood and Gemma isn't sure she's ready to be a mother again.

Connor... still chasing the high of his latest novel's success, he's starting to face the mess his success has left his life. Divorced, alone in a new city, and no new story to tell; he's still not quite ready to admit his actions may be what finally tore the family apart.

Roddy... a retired professional soccer player, he's given the chance to play again. However, the chance to extend his dream for one more season may mean the end of his relationship with his beloved fiancé.

Jude... in the height of the Oscar season, and as an Oscar nominee, she has (for some unknown reason) called the estranged siblings together in the backwoods of North Dakota. And while she keeps insisting she doesn't have ulterior motives, Jude does have a few secrets she's decided she's done keeping from the family.

Messy and emotional, FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY is an examination of the fractured family and what it means to decide to heal together. While predictable (and perhaps even anticlimactic) at times, this story was still beautifully written and executed. I loved each of these siblings (and each of the people in all their lives), and how messy they all were.

4.5 ⭐️

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY by Jennifer E. Smith

As an only child, sibling stories can be hit or miss for me. I felt that Jennifer E. Smith crafted an excellent sibling story where these four siblings (Jude, Gemma, Connor and Roddy) had fallen out of touch but are suddenly reunited by Jude, the famous actress, in North Dakota of all places. It felt like an authentic adult sibling relationship.

The reader learns about each sibling and what each is grappling with personally and how each plays a part in the sibling dynamic. Their chaotic mother had tied them together, and will they be able to pick up the pieces in their lives?

➕ I thought each sibling was well-crafted. Each came through as a unique individual with strengths and weaknesses and their own journey.
➕ This novel is extremely well-paced.

➖ I don’t like the cover of this book…or the terrible title. The publisher did this author dirty.
➖ There is some inplausibility here that such a terrible mother would produce a bestselling novelist, a professional soccer player, and a famous actress. Right? Gemma is the only one who wasn’t #1 in her field, and that had to suck to describe her three siblings to someone else.
➖ It was a lot of perspective/time switching. Usually I don’t mind it, and I see the purpose in this novel to do it, it just brought down the novel a little bit for me because it was so often.

Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an unbiased review.

It publishes April 8, 2025.

Meet the Endicott siblings. Gemma is the eldest and has the least extraordinary but the most stable life. Connor, the second oldest, is a divorced father of two who became a famous novelist after writing a thinly veiled story that upset his family. He now struggles with writing another book. Twins Roddy and Jude have excelled in their professions. Roddy is a professional soccer player approaching the end of his career, and Jude is an actress nominated for an Academy Award. With largely absent parents, Gemma took on a parental role for the once-close-knit foursome. After several years of not speaking with one another, Jude has arranged a getaway to a small North Dakota town to confront the issues that have kept them apart, including disclosing secrets she has kept from the ones she loves the most. 

Don't let the title of Fun for the Whole Family fool you. Jennifer E. Smith's latest book is an emotional story packed with lots of family drama, yet it also incorporates a lightheartedness, which explains the cute cover. You will find yourself caring for each member of the Endicott family, having experienced an unconventional upbringing. Not only have their relationships with one another been strained through the years, but each one is facing personal issues and struggles. A snowstorm in a secluded location provides the perfect setting to try and address their challenges. This book tugs at the heart as it explores themes of love of family, loss, regret, and forgiveness. 

4.25 stars.

Fun for the whole family? More like tears for the whole family. 😭

An absolute heartwarming and beautiful story of 4 siblings (Gemma, Connor, Roddy and Jude) and the many road trips that defined their life. They stop speaking after their dad’s funeral and 3 years later, Jude somehow manages to get everyone together for a trip to North Dakota. Out of all places. 😆 What ensues is a beautiful story of the journey of forgiveness and remembering the importance of their relationships.

This book has the perfect balance of staying in the present and going back in time as well as switching POVs. It added to the movement of the story and I didn’t feel like it took away from it at all. It felt like all 4 siblings really got an even amount of time.

Some of my favorite moments were: Roddy and Winston bantering, the break in that Gemma and Roddy do, the epilogue 😭

I went in thinking this was really going to be fun but here I am crying so take that as you will.

Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.