Family Tree

Barbara Delinsky's *Family Tree* introduces readers to Dana Clarke, a woman who has always longed for the stability of home and family after a difficult childhood. Now married to a man she adores from a prominent New England family and about to give birth, what should be the happiest day of her life shatters when her newborn daughter is born with undeniable African American traits. To Dana's shock and dismay, her husband immediately suspects infidelity, throwing their world into turmoil. The only path to healing and understanding requires Dana to embark on a poignant journey: tracking down the father she never knew to explore possible African American lineage in his family history, a quest that unearths deep-seated secrets rooted in prejudice and fear within both her own past and her husband's heritage. An utterly unforgettable novel, *Family Tree* stands out as a powerful example of Barbara Delinsky's mastery of emotional storytelling and her willingness to tackle complex, timely subjects. It delves deeply into challenging questions of race, identity, and the ripple effect of generational secrets, particularly when confronted by a crisis that shakes the very foundation of a family. Through Dana's determined journey, Delinsky crafts a compelling narrative that is both heartbreakingly personal and universally resonant, showcasing her signature blend of poignant character development and gripping plot. Its exploration of prejudice, heritage, and the enduring power of truth makes *Family Tree* a landmark novel in her bibliography, solidifying its place among her most essential and thought-provoking works.