Setting and Main Character

The story is set in western Pennsylvania, in the town of Somerville. Ever since moving there five years ago, fourteen year old Luke Wagner has put up with the jokes and pranks of Kenny Cesick, like the snake in the barn, the squirt gun, and the bowling tournament.

Conflict and Motivation

Katy, Kenny's sister, tells Luke to fight fire with fire. So, Luke plans to get even at the catalpa challenge in the catalpa tree. But the accident wasn't part of his plan.

Thematic Elements

Branches looks at the unpredictability of teens and their impetuous responses to love, sadness, anger, and fear--and how depression can insidiously undermine a teenager's life.

Author's Inspiration

The author survived a similar catalpa challenge growing up in western Pennsylvania. Fortunately, no tragedy occurred. But what if it had? That question is what launched this book.