In Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic, strong emphasis is placed upon family. This is especially evident in the relationship of sisters Gillian and Sally. Despite their differences in lifestyle and perception of reality throughout the novel, Gillian and Sally put aside their differences and appreciate one another. This love and support for one another – no matter the situation – is reoccurring and persistent. This does not mean that the novel is all sisterly peace and love, but ultimately the two always watch out for one another. This is a direct result of their mother and fathers’ absence during their adolescent years. Being raised by their aunts in an extensive generational line of witches, alongside the social disconnections they had from everyday society, perpetuated their closeness. This is why in times of peril and grief, Gillian and Sally are always quick to support their solidarity. Furthermore, growing up in a small-knit community, watching women buy love potions from their aunts and the labeling of their supernatural abilities, Gillian and Sally had no choice but to be one another’s protector and best friend. Social rejection – especially in adolescent years – undoubtedly influences one’s relationships. The social rejection Gillian and Sally encountered when they were younger undoubtedly solidified their undying support for one another. The importance of family is not mutually exclusive to Gillian and Sally, but radiates through their aunts and Sally’s two children, as well. While Gillian initially rejected the idea of using magic around her children, all members of the family – especially the aunts, who are strong advocates of their powers – form close, familial and supernatural relationships.