When Isla finds out she is going to be a big sister, she’s not impressed. Isla and her mother go on to create a family tree, they cut-and-paste leaves and branches to show how Isla’s grandparents, aunty’s, uncles and cousins all fit together.
Despite creating a beautiful tree and discussing family details and memories, Isla’s still not convinced that there is room in the family for anyone else; that is, until a magical moment prevails, giving her a new perspective and more open mind.
I like how the story shows snippets into the lives of related families, each with different circumstances, homes and structures including a same-sex couple and an adopted child. It feels modern, broad-minded and diverse.
The gorgeous, simplistic line art illustrations with a minimal pink and orange colour palette set a warm, homely scene and work in perfect unity with the text.
Isla’s Family Tree would be perfect for children expecting a new sibling or siblings and a great lead to discussing how children fit into families and what makes a family and further craft or classroom activities.
Katrina McKelvey is an Australian author, two of her other books include Dandelions and Up to Something. Prue Pittock is an illustrator from Melbourne, Australia, some of her other books include Thank You, Mummy and Thank You, Daddy.
Title: Isla's Family Tree
Author: Katrina McKelvey
Illustrator: Prue Pittock
Publisher: EK Books , $24.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781925820379
For ages: 6 – 8
Type: Picture Book
