The Wish Tree

By Kyo Maclear and Chris Turnham

A boy and his trusty sled embark on a wintry adventure to find a magical tree in a children’s book “full of warmth and cheer” (School Library Journal).

Charles wants to find a wish tree. His brother and sister don't believe there is such a thing, but his trusty companion Boggan is ready to join Charles on a journey to find out. And along the way, they discover that wishes can come true in the most unexpected ways.

With poetic text by Kyo Maclear and heartwarming illustrations by Christ Turnham, The Wish Tree evokes the true essence of the holiday season and will inspire wishers everywhere. More than a great winter holiday tale, this gem of a book deserves to be enjoyed stage all year-round.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Open Road Integrated Media
• Release date: Sep 27, 2016
• ISBN: 9781452156866

Kyo Maclear

Kyo Maclear is the author of many critically acclaimed and popular books for children, including Julia, Child; The Wish Tree; The Specific Ocean; Virginia Wolf; and Spork. She lives in Toronto, Canada.

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Reviews for The Wish Tree

[librarianryan · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I liked this story, but trying to say why is hard. It was sweet, and about a kid playing with his toboggan in the snow. He helped out the animals while looking for a wish tree. But we never found out what his wish was, or why he needed the tree in the first place. I like the story, but don’t think it has the staying power to be on shelves 50 years from now.

[abigailadams26 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Ignoring the naysaying of his brother and sister, Charles heads out into the woods one wintry day, together with Boggan, his reliable sled, to hunt for the Wish Tree. The two encounter many animals along the way, always stopping to help them with their tasks, and when they finally do find what they are seeking, Charles' wish is granted. The story concludes with a beautiful woodland party, and Charles and Boggan head home...A lovely little winter fantasy, The Wish Tree pairs an engaging story about a young boy out in the snowy woods with charming illustrations that capture the beauty of the world around him, and the appeal of the various animals he encounters. I really enjoyed the scene with the woodland party, as it reminded me a bit of Akiko Miyakoshi's The Tea Party in the Woods. Predictably, I also greatly enjoyed the depiction of the beautiful fox! Recommended to picture-book readers looking for fantastic wintry tales.