Book Review: Family Tree by Susan Wiggs
When I first picked up Family Tree by Susan Wiggs, I wasn’t expecting the emotional journey that awaited me. Known for her rich storytelling, Wiggs has a knack for throwing her characters into the deep end and guiding them—and us—through the tumultuous waters of love, loss, and rediscovery. As I dove into the life of Annie Harlow, an unexpected connection began to unfold, and I found myself just as invested in her story as if it were my own.
At the heart of Family Tree is Annie, a successful producer of a popular cooking show who tragically loses everything in an instant when a freak accident leaves her in a year-long coma. Upon awakening, she returns to her roots in Switchback, Vermont—a place saturated with childhood memories and layered familial history. It’s here that readers are introduced to the vibrant cast of characters, including her whimsical brother and supportive mother, as well as her first love, Fletcher, who now serves as a judge.
Wiggs brilliantly weaves themes of resilience and self-discovery throughout the narrative, focusing on the idea that true strength often emerges from vulnerability. One of my favorite aspects of the book was how it mirrored the complexities of real life; the pain of the past mingles with the hope for the future. I was especially moved by Annie’s gradual reawakening to her family’s culinary legacy, particularly as she discovers her grandmother’s old cookbook—a treasure that serves as both a literal and metaphorical guide to healing.
The writing style is refreshingly approachable, filled with vivid, sensory descriptions that made me feel as if I could smell the maple syrup wafting from the pages. Wiggs employs a graceful narrative structure that alternates between past and present, offering insights into Annie’s earlier life while simultaneously anchoring her in the present moment. The pacing occasionally lingers during the recovery phase, but I felt it was purposefully designed to emphasize the painstaking process of healing both physically and emotionally.
Throughout the book, nuggets of wisdom shine through, eloquently echoing the significance of family ties. One quote struck me particularly hard: “The key ingredient to life lay beyond the kitchen.” This resonated as a reminder that love, support, and connection form the backbone of our existence, far beyond our individual pursuits.
Family Tree is more than just a love story; it is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to return home and reconcile with one’s past. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate emotional depth, strong familial bonds, and those small-town vibes that linger long after the last page is turned. Whether you enjoy cooking stories or simply seek a compelling human experience, this novel is bound to resonate.
I came away from Family Tree feeling as though I had embarked on a journey alongside Annie, from grief to rebirth. It’s a beautifully crafted narrative that reminds us of the strength found in our roots and the power of rediscovery. In a world that often rushes us through the hurt towards a tidy resolution, Wiggs invites us to savor each moment, reminding us that every setback can indeed pave the way for a beautiful comeback. So, dear readers, if you find yourself longing for a book that feels like a warm hug, pick this one up—you won’t regret it.
You can find Family Tree: A Novel here >>