Far from the Tree

Grace, Maya, and Joaquin all share the same biological mother but have never met until Grace gives her own baby up for adoption, is left at a crossroads in her life, and pursues finding her mother but finds siblings instead. All three siblings have identity issues they are dealing with and as they get to know each other they keep secrets, and all struggle with whether to work together to find their mother. This engaging novel has alternating points of view and the issues the siblings face are diverse and significant. Useful as a class, literature circle, or independent novel for grades 8-12, it deals with issues of self-esteem, family relationships, adoption, and identity.