The Only Branch on the Family Tree by Sherryl Clark

It's always been Gemma and her mum, but while researching a class project about family, Gemma makes a life-changing discovery. Her nan is not dead, like her mum told her, but alive and living nearby.

What follows is a poignant and emotional story about family dynamics that is not often explored. Gemma must confront some tough questions and situations as she navigates her reality.

Author Sherryl Clark tells the story in simple verse, with each chapter short and punchy. There's lots of wonderful poetic devices that Clark includes within the story, making it an interesting read, not just for the topic. 

There are a few illustrations within, the most poignant being the tree that slowly grows as the story progresses.

Clark touches on a part of families that are rarely seen, despite being very common. Readers will question the estrangement - why did mum lie? What led to the relationship breakdown? - but Clark carefully ensures that by leaving specific information out, readers going through something similar to Gemma can see themselves reflected back in the pages. Her ability to leave space for the reader to predict and imply is brilliant.

The ending was realistic and believable, far better than the alternative 'fairy tale' 'happily ever after' possibility.

This will be a tough book to read for some, but Clark is sure to infuse the pages with courage and hope too.

The Only Branch on the Family Tree was a really interesting read. A book about secrets, forgiveness and relationships, it is a unique and powerful story.

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

UQP