Wishtree

http://www.gpl.lib.me.us/book-gifts/

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Charles Santoso

Fantasy

Evaluation of Book

Narrated by an old oak tree, Wishtree by Katherine Applegate tells the story of a 10 year old Muslim girl that has moved into the house next to this tree. Applegate weaves a lovely story of animals, humans and a tree that has been vandalized. The tree’s owner believes it would be best to cut the tree down. However, this tree, Red, provides shelter to animal families and is the “wishing tree” of the neighborhood.

This story shares the pleasures and difficulties of living in harmony. Samar hasn’t made any friends and when someone carves the word “LEAVE” into the tree, her family considers moving. Samar writes her wish on a scrap of fabric and ties it to the tree. Red cares for this young girl and tries to grant her special wish. In doing so he is forced to speak which surprises Samar.

The language of the story is simple yet beautiful. Her descriptions of the sky “freckled with stars” and a “splinter of moon” bring the reader to the backyard at night. This language and her portrayal of Red and Bongo, the crow, develops a relationship with the reader and these characters. The story told from the viewpoint of the tree is unique and appealing to fantasy lovers. Applegate draws the reader into the story from the very beginning.

Response

This book was part of my summer reading pile long before this assignment came about. Two lovely fifth grade girls recommended that I read it. They said it was sad but a nice story. The illustration on the cover of the book is very appealing and one that I would have likely chosen to read based on the drawing alone.

I did feel that the story had a slow start. The telling of the story from Red’s point of view was a unique approach by the author but I found it didn’t provide much action. If I hadn’t needed to read the book for this assignment, I would have likely set it aside. I’m not a real big fan of fantasy literature. However, I am thankful that I stuck with the story as the plot definitely picked up about halfway into the book. I look forward to talking to the two students that recommended this book in order to find out what they loved about the book.

Conclusion

This heartwarming book about acceptance, friendship and kindness is suitable for all ages. As a Newberry Medal winner, Katherine Applegate’s literary style of sensitivity and humor is partnered with simple illustrations by Charles Santoso. Together they create a story that will be loved by fans of fantasy.

Citation

Applegate, K., & Santoso, C. (2017). Wishtree. First edition. New York: Feiwel and Friends.