This is the kind of book that reminds you why Katherine Applegate has a Newbery Medal. Wishtree is genuinely original—a tree narrator!—and uses that unusual perspective to tell a story about community, belonging, and standing up to prejudice that never feels preachy.
The plot is simple: a Muslim family moves in, not everyone is welcoming, and Red the oak tree (along with Bongo the crow and a bunch of woodland creatures) figures out how to help. But Applegate's writing elevates it—funny, warm, and wise without being saccharine. Kids love it (4.7 stars on Amazon, glowing Common Sense reviews), and parents appreciate that it tackles real issues like racism in an age-appropriate way that invites conversation.
It's a quick read (under 200 pages, large print) that works as a read-aloud for younger kids or independent reading for 8+. If your kid groans at 'another talking animal book,' trust me—this one's different. And if you're looking for a book that builds empathy without being a lecture, this is it.






