Book SynopsisTrees can't tell jokes, but they can certainly tell stories... Red is an oak tree who is many rings old. Red is the neighbourhood wishtree – people write their wishes on pieces of cloth and tie them to Red's branches. Along with a crow named Bongo and other animals who seek refuge in Red's hollows, this wishtree watches over the neighbourhood.You might say Red has seen it all.Until a new family moves in. Not everyone is welcoming, and Red's experience as a wishtree is more important than ever.Funny, deep, warm, and nuanced, this is Katherine Applegate at her very best – writing from the heart, and from a completely unexpected point of view.Trade Review'Wishtree is bountiful in every way one can imagine. Beautiful language. Extraordinary storytelling. Gently rendered characters. Everyone should read this book (and all of Applegate's other books, quite frankly!). There aren't many authors that make you feel like you're a better person for having read them' -- R.J. Palacio, author of Wonder, White Bird and Pony'I love Katherine Applegate's books; they're so intelligent, so richly witty and so wise that they feel like living, breathing things' -- Katherine Rundell'The simplicity of Newbery Medalist Applegate's graceful novel contrasts powerfully with the prejudice it confronts ... It's a distinctive call for kindness, delivered by an unforgettable narrator' * Publishers Weekly starred review *'Another stunning effort from Applegate. This thoughtful read is a top choice for middle graders' * SLJ starred review *'Short chapters and a slim word count widen the audience of this beautiful tale ... Timely, necessary, and brimming with heart' * Booklist starred review *'This swiftly moving yet contemplative read is great for early middle grade, reluctant or tentative readers, or precocious younger students. A deceptively simple, tender tale in which respect, resilience, and hope triumph' * Kirkus starred review *'A beautifully written, morally bracing story that will leave its imprint on a reader of any age' * New York Times Book Review *'This gentle yet powerful book is suitable for all ages [...] and its message remains more vital than ever' * BookPage *'Applegate introduces another quiet, resilient protagonist who – like the caged gorilla in The One and Only Ivan and the working-class boy in Crenshaw – speaks movingly to a noisy, fractious world' * Washington Post *
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