In Wishtree, she takes on anti-Muslim bigotry, handling the subject with a light touch, so the treatment doesn't feel heavy. Author Katherine Applegate often untangles thorny subjects for young readers, in the past addressing captive animals and homelessness. There's a charming whimsy to this quiet friendship book that touches on bigotry but draws on the deeper wisdom of the stately oak tree that narrates the story of its richly diverse community.

The story, narrated by a talking tree, also has talking animals, short chapters, and sweet black-and-white illustrations scattered throughout, making it a perfect choice for young readers. Applegate has crafted this as a sweet friendship story and laced it with factual information about trees and animals.

We never meet the boy who did it, and the community uses the opportunity to express welcome for the family. The central conflict is an instance of hate aimed at a Muslim family - a boy carves the word 'LEAVE' into their tree - but Applegate handles the incident gently. Parents need to know that Wishtree is by Newbery Award winner Katherine Applegate ( The One and Only Ivan), who brings her trademark sensitivity and humor to a thorny, topical subject.

A passing car of angry men shout 'Muslims, get out!' A boy carves 'LEAVE' on the tree in Samar's yard.ĭid you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Wishtree book