Wishtree

 

Summary (from the publisher): Trees can't tell jokes, but they can certainly tell stories. . . .

Red is an oak tree who is many rings old. Red is the neighborhood "wishtree"—people write their wishes on pieces of cloth and tie them to Red's branches. Along with her crow friend Bongo and other animals who seek refuge in Red's hollows, this "wishtree" watches over the neighborhood.

You might say Red has seen it all. Until a new family moves in. Not everyone is welcoming, and Red's experiences as a wishtree are more important than ever.

Review: What a charming story with a beautiful, resilient protagonist, gorgeous illustrations, and a thoughtful message. This novel is narrated by Red, a 216 year old oak tree who has quietly spent her life observing the families of people and animals who live on her street and in her branches. Red is known in her town as a wishtree and once a year written wishes are tied to her branches. While Red thinks she has seen it all, a new family has moved into the house within her shade and not everyone in the community is as welcoming as old Red. 

Without giving too much away of the plot, this was a heartwarming story about acceptance and love for every member of the community. Additionally, the importance of history and honoring the past was shown, as well as respect for nature. While this is very much a chapter book, and one that is ideal for middle school and up aged readers, it has beautiful illustrations throughout of leaves and the animals mentioned in the story. This book with its sweet, simple characters and message won me over. A beautiful little book. 

Stars: 4