Book Review: Wishtree

Synopsis: “It’s hard to talk to trees. We’re not big on chitchat.” And so begins a story that will make you look at trees differently. Written from the perspective of Red Oak – a tree that has lived in the neighborhood for over 200 years, this is the story of friendship, acceptance, and love. The Wishtree was named as such because each year neighbors and friends come and attach wishes to the tree using scraps of fabric and paper.
When a new family moves in next door the Wishtree feels compelled to speak aloud to help the young girl make new friends (and fulfill her wish). But when some people in the community start harassing the family for being different the Wishtree knows that more needs to be done and he might not be able to save the day.

Review: When I read this was a book written in the perspective a tree, I was hesitant, but I’m not sure what I was worried about! This is a new favorite that would make a great read aloud for 3rd-5th graders and is a book that could spark a lot of really great conversation. Acceptance, tolerance, friendship, and love are all woven together in a book that is apt for the world we now live in and with characters  like a tree and a crow, this is truly a unique perspective.
Twitter Booktalk (280 characters or less): A story of acceptance, tolerance, friendship and love – Wishtree is told from the perspective of a red oak who has looked over the neighborhood for over 200 years. When people begin harassing a new family in town, Red Oak must try to protect them.
Title: Wishtree
Author: Katherine Applegate
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date: September 26, 2017
Page Number:  224 pgs.