Howdy all, it’s Sarah!
I came across this book when it showed up on my library’s list of potential Newbery titles for 2018. I. AM. IN. LOVE. Okay, so I loved Applegate’s previous One and Only Ivan, but she completely hit me in the feels again with this book. I just had to review it and spread the word of this awesome book.
Summary: Red is a tree and it turns out, trees can talk…if you are willing to be patient and listen. Wishtree is Red’s story and how she has helped humans throughout time, especially Samar. Each year, humans tie bits of cloth to Red with their wishes written on them. Samar is new in town and is being excluded because of where she is from. This little girl ties her own wish to Red, hoping for a friend. Red has upheld the not interacting with humans thing for hundreds of years, but this one wish the tree just may have some power to help with.
Review: This book was fantastic. The illustrations enhanced the story and made me feel like I was reading it in a tree. This seemingly simple story addressed heavy issues, broached interesting historical facts, seamlessly integrated vocabulary, and provided a rare quiet beauty. This is probably my favorite book of the year.
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