Building Community Through Story: Our Upcoming Whole-School Read Aloud of The Wishtree
Posted on 03/23/2025
We believe in the power of stories to bring people together, foster empathy, and inspire meaningful conversations. In April, we are excited to embark on a whole-school read-aloud of The Wishtree by Katherine Applegate, a beautifully written novel that explores themes of kindness, inclusion, and the power of hope.
Told from the perspective of Red, a 200-year-old oak tree, the story follows Red’s role as the neighborhood "wishtree," where people tie their hopes and dreams to its branches. Over the years, Red has seen families come and go, watched as friendships formed and struggles unfolded, and provided shelter to both animals and humans alike. However, when a new family moves into the neighborhood and encounters unkindness, Red finds its role as a silent observer tested. Through the experiences of Samar, a young Muslim girl longing for acceptance, and Red’s own journey of discovery, The Wishtree encourages readers to reflect on the importance of welcoming others, standing up to prejudice, and building inclusive communities.
