Florence and Her Fantastic Family Tree

When Florence’s teacher assigned the family project, what she wanted from the children was a family tree. Florence’s best friend, Sonji, had a pretty simple family tree with a mom, a dad, a brother, and Sonji. But Florence has a different kind of family tree, one with lots of branches and roots, stickers, and leaves. Florence has four… no, wait… six parents and step-parents and, while she only has one brother, she has a passel of half-brothers and half-sisters. It’s a lot to remember and a lot to get right, and she really has to wonder if she can fit it on the wall in the classroom. It’s a big, messy, complicated family, but it is Florence’s, and she wants to show her class.

Author Judy Gilliam has tapped into the blended family that many youngsters can relate to and may feel shy or uncomfortable talking about. This book will help them realize most people have messy families and will help them become more comfortable with their own situations. Laura Addari’s sweet illustrations in gentle colors with lots of fun details complete the story. This book belongs in classrooms and homes everywhere.