The Mulberry Tree

Gr 3-6–When Immy’s family relocates to a small English village, they think they’ve found the perfect place for a fresh start. The only problem is the mulberry tree in their new yard: Ancient and decrepit, the villagers believe the tree caused the disappearance of two girls years previously, each on the eve of her 11th birthday. With Immy’s birthday fast approaching, the village can’t believe her family is moving in, but Immy is determined to understand what really happened—and maybe even heal the past. While the plot has elements of a spooky story, what Rushby has created is more realistic fiction than fantasy, focused on understanding and empathy. Plotlines about Immy’s father and the other villagers strengthen the main story line, and will be relatable to any child who has grown up around mental illness. Immy is brave and compassionate, but flawed as any 10-year-old would be, especially when struggling to accept her father’s depression while adjusting to life in a new place.