The Tree You Come Home To

One writer's search for meaning, one family's journey to healing...

Jane Olmsted's family didn't adhere to the characteristics that the media portrays for those struggling with mental illness and addiction. Doctors, attorneys, and social workers repeatedly told Jane and her husband that they weren't used to working with "families like yours." The Tree You Come Home To tells the story of Jane's family's struggle with mental illness, addiction, and the crises that followed the murder of her youngest son. It can provide hope and comfort to those facing similar situations and encourage empathy and compassion in those who haven't.

"Jane Olmsted's meticulously detailed account is a wake-up call for schools, churches, social workers, legislators, psychologists, medical doctors, and all those engaged with the mental and emotional wellness of at-risk youth."

-Sena Jeter Naslund, Ph.D., author of Ahab's Wife and others

"Jane Olmsted weaves together life and death, tragedy, and moments of grace in this extraordinary memoir on the murder of her youngest son. In luminous writing, Olmsted plumbs the complex and fluctuating dynamics of family, motherhood, grief, and faith while forging a path towards healing."

-Kristin Czarnecki, author of The First Kristin: The Story of a Naming