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Wishtree

4.29
on Goodreads (38,251)

What’s inside...

A neighborhood dispute turns into a major incident when a hurtful message is left on a tree for a ten-year-old girl. The tree, who is the narrator and wisdom figure of the story, watches and hopes for resolution while a clever crow named Bongo and other creatures help with the efforts.
In series
Age
8-11
Length
240 pages
Text complexity

Discussion points

How did Red, the wishtree, show kindness to the animals and the people around it?
Why do you think it's important for the characters to share their wishes?
What did you learn about the importance of community from the story?
How would you help a new friend feel welcome if they were different from everyone else?
What wish would you tie on Red if you had the chance, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how they can show kindness in their daily life, similar to how Red did in the story.
Discuss the diverse wishes displayed in the book and ask your child what they wish for their community or school.
Relate the story's themes to real-life scenarios where welcoming others and fostering a sense of belonging are essential.
Use the wishtree concept to create a small wish activity at home, where family members can share and discuss their wishes, reinforcing the story’s theme of community and support.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and community
Explanation: In 'Wishtree', the characters from diverse backgrounds come together to save their beloved tree, demonstrating the power of unity and collective effort.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and foster relationships with their peers, understanding that teamwork can achieve positive outcomes that benefit everyone in their community.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story revolves around a tree that is central to the community, illustrating the importance of trees and nature in our lives and teaching children to respect and care for the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in environmental conservation activities such as recycling, planting trees, and taking care of plants in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: The characters in the book show compassion towards each other's differences and struggles, which helps in resolving conflicts and creating a harmonious environment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing empathy towards their classmates and peers, understanding their feelings, and offering support during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: The book highlights acts of bravery where characters stand up against wrongdoings, showing children the impact of their actions when they uphold their values.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be assertive and speak out against injustice or bullying, whether for themselves or others, fostering a sense of moral responsibility.
Example Lesson: The beauty of diversity
Explanation: ‘Wishtree’ celebrates the diversity of its characters, who come from different backgrounds but find common ground and friendship, showcasing the richness diversity brings to communities.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace and celebrate cultural differences, promoting inclusivity and understanding in everyday interactions with others.