Plot Summary

Family Tree

Barbara Delinsky
Guide cover placeholder

Family Tree

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1978

Book Brief

Barbara Delinsky

Family Tree

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1978
Book Details
Pages

358

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New England • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

1978

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Family Tree by Barbara Delinsky, the seemingly picture-perfect couple Hugh and Dana Clarke confronts hidden racial biases and family secrets when they give birth to a mixed-race daughter, Lizzie, despite both being white. As suspicions arise, family histories unravel, and the couple learns about unknown ancestry and the complexities of identity and heritage. Sensitive topics in the book include race and infidelity.

Contemplative

Emotional

Mysterious

Melancholic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.0

11,349 ratings

58%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Barbara Delinsky's Family Tree delves into themes of identity, race, and familial bonds. Reviewers praise its thought-provoking narrative and rich character development. However, some critics find the plot predictable and the handling of complex issues simplistic. Overall, it's a compelling read that encourages reflection, despite occasional shortcomings.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Family Tree?

Readers who enjoy exploring themes of identity, family secrets, and societal expectations in a contemporary setting will appreciate Barbara Delinsky's Family Tree. Fans of Jodi Picoult’s nuanced storytelling in novels like My Sister's Keeper or Sue Miller’s exploration of complex relationships in The Good Mother will find this book captivating.

4.0

11,349 ratings

58%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

12%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

358

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New England • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

1978

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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