I finally got a chance to read Wishtree by Katherine Applegate. I loved all of her past stories, and this new title did not disappoint. I highly recommend you gather a copy with your fall leaf collection (the book comes out on September 26), sit under a nice warm blanket — under a favorite tree — and read all night long.  I read this book in one sitting, and I think you will, too.

Wishtree has been around for over 200 years, and in that time she has seen many changes in the lives of the animals and the humans who surround her. Every May Day (May 1st) people come from all around to tie pieces of cloth with written wishes on the tree. It’s a tradition that Wishtree enjoys, until one day, a young male comes and changes the tree’s life, and the lives of all who live nearby. Wishtree decides that maybe wishes should come true — she’s an optimist, you see; but the animals who live in her hollows disagree. With the help of her best friend, a crow named Bongo, and 2 school children, Wishtree provides more to the neighborhood than even she realized she could. This is a beautiful story of hope, friendship, and acceptance, told by a tree. And what a story it is!

 

Add this title to your TBR list now, so you don’t forget. Enjoy your back-to-school reading!

Wishtree book cover picture by Goodreads.