Author: Katherine Applegate
Published: 2017
Genre: Fantasy
Grade Level: 3rd–5th Grade
Blurb (from
goodreads):
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.
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.
My Scores:
Writing Style: Solid
I adore the way this book was written. While
it’s true that the majority of sentences were simple and straight-forward
(because it’s 3rd to 5th grade), each one was crafted to perfection.
Through there simplicity, each idea presented
carried so much weight.
For example:
"Hollows are proof that something
bad can become something good with enough time and care and hope."
"It is a great gift indeed to love
who you are."
There are also quite a few scientific words I
hadn’t heard before spread throughout the book, such as 'corvids' and 'crepuscular.'
Characters: Memorable
In this book, the MC is a tree named Red. One
would suppose that because of this the character wouldn’t take an active role
in the plot. The MC would merely be a candid observer. However, you would be
wrong.
There is magic in this book, where trees and
animals can communicate to one another. Because of this communication, the MC is able to take a more active role in the story, which I loved watching
unfold.
Not to mention that Red reminded me so much of
my best friends that it was impossible for me not to instantly love the
character. Red is thoughtful, considerate, empathetic, and had a wonderful
sense of self-deprecating humor.
For example:
"I think Bongo is too pessimistic
for such a young bird. Bongo thinks I’m too optimistic for such an old tree."
"So many wishes. Grand and goofy,
selfish and sweet. It’s an honor, all the hopes bestowed upon my tired old
limbs. Although by the end of May Day, I look like someone dumped a huge basket
of trash on top of me."
I found the supporting characters, such as a
crow named Bongo and the human children Samar and Stephen, to be endearing as
well. They felt real to me, and I cared about them the same way the MC cared
about them.
Plot: Slow Burn
The plot is a slow burn in the best kind
of way. It takes its time developing personalities and providing a background
into their lives so the audience could better appreciate them. This approach
reminded me a lot of Charlotte’s Web and Secret Garden.
Overall:
Obsessed
I love this book. It was such
a joy to read. Anyone would be able to appreciate it, not just the kids. I just
wish it were a little longer, but I never want to good book to end. :)
Extra Notes:
The artwork! I could stare these drawings for
days. They are by far the best I’ve ever seen in a chapter book.
Messaging:
Preservation of the environment.
Tolerance of those who are different from you.
Never let your circumstances define who you are.
Similar Books:
Peter Rabbit
Charlotte’s Web
Secret Garden
Goodreads Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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