Wishtree

Trees can't tell jokes, but they can 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 a crow named Bongo and other animals who seek refuge in Red's hollows, this wishtree watches over the neighborhood." This is Katherine Applegate at her best, writing from the heart and from an unexpected point of view.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2022
Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Group

Trees may not possess the ability to tell jokes, but they possess a rich tapestry of stories to share. Among the towering branches, there stands a majestic oak tree named Red, with a lifespan adorned with countless rings. Red holds a special place in the hearts of the people in its neighborhood—it serves as a wishtree, where individuals express their desires by writing them on pieces of cloth and tying them to its branches. Alongside a wise crow named Bongo and a diverse array of other creatures seeking solace within Red's hollows, this wishtree stands as a vigilant guardian, overseeing the well-being of the community.

Red, with its seasoned wisdom, has witnessed the ebb and flow of life over the years. However, the arrival of a new family brings about a transformative shift in the neighborhood's dynamics. Not everyone embraces this change with open arms, and Red's role as a wishtree becomes even more crucial than before.

As the new family settles into their home, they bring with them their own set of challenges and uncertainties. Red, with its unwavering presence, begins to witness the intricacies of human relationships, the complexities of emotions, and the profound impact of choices. Through its silent witness, it becomes a vessel for empathy, offering solace and understanding to those in need.

Funny, deep, warm, and nuanced, Katherine Applegate's writing in "Wishtree" exemplifies her exceptional talent. She delves into the heart of the matter, offering a fresh and unexpected perspective. With each turn of the page, readers are transported into a world where trees possess the capacity to understand and communicate, where wishes hold immense power, and where the bonds between humans and nature are intricately woven.

In this captivating tale, Applegate explores the themes of resilience, acceptance, and the transformative power of empathy. Red, as the wishtree, becomes a symbol of hope and unity, offering a haven for those who seek solace and a means to connect with the natural world. Through its unwavering presence, it reminds us of the importance of listening, understanding, and nurturing the delicate balance between humanity and the environment.

"Wishtree" is a testament to Katherine Applegate's remarkable storytelling abilities. It invites readers to step into a world where trees possess a profound wisdom and where the boundaries between the natural and the human realm blur. With its captivating narrative, rich characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book serves as a reminder of the profound connections that exist between all living beings and the world around us.

In conclusion, "Wishtree" by Katherine Applegate is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling, the beauty of nature, and the significance of empathy. Through the eyes of a majestic oak tree, this book offers a unique perspective on the human experience, reminding us of the importance of connection, resilience, and the transformative power of understanding.

Weight: 208g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801300704