The Family Tree

K-Gr 3–Always on the go, Penny’s family never slows down. When “something happens, something that gets everyone’s attention,” Bo-Belly the dog’s ear cocks attentively and Penny pauses, even though the family must hurry on again. In the middle of the kitchen, starting very small, a young tree sprouts. At first only Penny and the dog seem to notice, as the grown-ups have so many things to attend to. The tree grows rapidly and takes over the family’s house, sending roots into the basement and branches out through the roof. The family that once had to rush from one thing to another learns to slow down and “they are more in and less out. And way less hurried.” By the conclusion of this gently humorous and thoroughly recognizable tale for today’s overprogrammed families, a sense of calm and connectivity has spread through this family. Readers who feel the frantic pace of modern life will be left wishing for a tree to take root in their own kitchens. Illustrations are done in a mix of watercolor patterns, textures, and digital drawings, capturing the young sapling, the frenetic pace of the family, and the eventual development of peace and harmony. By the conclusion, the tree’s fall foliage envelopes the family in glorious color and a sense of tranquility.