The Only Branch on the Family Tree

By Sherryl Clark
Guest Review by Kirsten Ealand

I love verse novels. There’s something so lovely about a slim book with lots of white space – so approachable and undaunting – yet with all the emotional punch, lyrical language and not-following-the-rules playful form that I love to read. I jumped at the chance to review The Only Branch on the Family Tree – the latest middle grade verse novel by Sherryl Clark. I loved her last, the much-awarded Mina and the Whole Wide World. A big-hearted story about refugees and dealing with disappointment, it handled Mina’s often conflicting big emotions with nuance and care.

The Only Branch on the Family Tree is a wonderful follow up. For as long as Gemma can remember it’s been just her and her mum. The two of them are close and Gemma always thought it was enough. Then, while researching a class project about family, Gemma discovers she has a nan after all. Not just alive but living around the corner. Suddenly there’s too many questions, and maybe two doesn’t feel like enough people in her family tree after all.

I love how close and tight Sherryl keeps this story. Just a girl, her mum, one friend to confide in and a teacher (Mrs Wellcome, so you know she’s the good type). Then suddenly there’s a nan. A nan who Gemma’s mum told her was dead.

The Only Branch on the Family Tree is a window into one family’s experience of estrangement, and explores themes of secrets, betrayal, and forgiveness. It’s a story about taking chances, reaching out for what you need and working out ways to help relationships blossom.

Sheryl writes in short verses, about three to a page. Each page has a heading –almost giving it the feel of a poetry anthology – with each ‘poem page’ advancing the story a little bit more. It’s such a lovely way to read. Maybe it’s the picture book writer in me but it feels like this format, and a verse novel more generally, makes each word, each theme, seem more considered. There’s no room for fill and somehow the writing feels more honest. Or maybe that’s just Sherryl’s mastery of her craft.

I think kids will really connect with Gemma and her big feelings and I will be recommending this story widely in my library. Of course, it’s perfect for lovers of verse novels and realistic contemporary fiction but it’s also very accessible for reluctant readers.

Highly recommended.

Teacher’s Notes

Kirsten Ealand is the author of two picture books, The Big Backyard Plan and Like a Gannet.