How to Grow a Family Tree by Eliza Henry-Jones

Stella may only be seventeen, but having read every self-help book she can find means she knows a thing or two about helping people. She sure wasn't expecting to be the one in need of help, though.

Thanks to her father's gambling addiction, Stella and her family now find themselves living at Fairyland Caravan Park. And hiding this truth from her friends is hard enough without dealing with another secret. Stella's birth mother has sent her a letter. As Stella deals with the chaos of her family, she must also confront the secrets and past of her 'other' family. But Stella is stronger than she realises.

This book was absolutely brilliant. It is possibly one of my favourite YA novels ever!! I absolutely adored the characters, and I LOVED the story. The book has so many beautiful messages, and everyone would benefit from reading this book. The book shows that sometimes things that are covered in gold, are crumbling on the inside, and that sometimes you can find beautiful things in the darkest places.

This novel explores the true meaning of family, friendship, grief, love and loss. This book was so so so heartwarming, and a at times heartbreaking as well. I laughed and cried alongside the characters, who I felt such a kinship with. The sense of community in this story is so pure and lovely, and I truly admired the friendships and family relationships featured in this book. I loved that there was no swearing in this book, as it is way too common and unnecessary in the YA genre! I also thought that the dialogue was so natural, and the writing flowed perfectly!

 How to Grow a Family Tree is an enlightening story, that I know will stay with me for a long time. I will be recommending this book to everyone and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts! Congratulations Eliza Henry-Jones for writing another stunning YA novel!