There is no such thing as a typical family. The make up of every family is different. Families come in all shapes, sizes and configurations. Each and every family will have their own unique relationships, their own family traditions, and their own emotional bonds. Children’s books, specifically middle-grade fiction, have long embraced themes of family dynamics, using humour, mystery and some excellent heartfelt storytelling to explore the ways in which families grow, adapt and overcome challenges all families will face. This brings us to Jenny Moore’s Bauble, Me and the Family Tree, a touching novel for readers age 8-12 years old. It blends family dynamics, humour, mystery, and deep emotional themes to create a fantastic and emotional story.
The story follows Noel, a ten-year-old boy, and his seven-year-old super-brainy sister Holly (aka Bauble). They live with their mother with support from their gay uncles, both who happen to be named Mike. Their father sadly passed away before Bauble was born, leaving an empty absence in their lives. But when Bauble spots their mother kissing Santa Claus, although it’s August not December, Noel’s world is thrown into chaos. He starts to question whether their father could still be alive? Who is the mysterious “F” sending their mother romantic postcards? And why is she suddenly obsessed with taking photos of people in food bikinis?
With all these questions that need answers, Noel and Bauble embark on an investigation to uncover the truth, which delves into the realms of grief, relationships, family dynamics and honesty.
Overall, Bauble, Me and the Family Tree is an emotional story about the crushing effects of death and how children deal with it, and excellent to read. It is a very touching story with difficult themes that are handled extremely well. A beautifully written novel for middle-grade readers. Not only does it show the devastating effects that grief can have on children and how they handle it, it delicately explores themes of loss, love, and the complexities of family relationships. It also looks at how keeping secrets really doesn’t help, even when the purpose is to protect people and is done with the very best of intentions. The writing and story are sensitive yet engaging, ensuring that young readers can relate to the emotions while still enjoying the mystery and humour woven throughout the story.
While the books deals with several difficult and emotional themes, one of its greatest strengths is the balance between more serious themes and light-hearted fun moments. Grief may be the central focus but the story never becomes overwhelming for its young readers. Instead, it offers gentle humour, such as the bizarre food-themed photos and a five-legged race, to keep the tone accessible for younger readers.
Bauble, Me and the Family Tree is a beautifully written novel that handles difficult topics with care and authenticity. It’s a story about grief, honesty, and the many shapes that families can take, making it a valuable read for children navigating their own emotions and family changes. Written from the point of view of a child for children about grief, honesty, and the many shapes that families can take, it creates a perspective that children will be able to relate to and hopefully help them deal with grief and change in their own family dynamics.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £6.99 (paperback)
For more information, visit Maverick Books. Available to buy from Amazon here.
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