Charles sets out with Boggan (his smiling tobaggan) to find a wish tree, despite the discouragement of his brother and sister ("There is no such thing"). Through a winter twilight palette, Charles and Boggan travel, helping animals along the way (transporting nuts for a squirrel and birch wood for a beaver). Charles and Boggan sing a repeated refrain ("La-di-da-di-da-di-daaaa" "Whishhhh") until, at last, they do indeed find a wish tree.

See also: The Tea Party in the Woods by Akiko Miyakoshi, Lottie & Walter by Anna Walker, Henry & Leo by Pamela Zagarenski ( )

This is such a cute book to read, especially during the holidays. It is definitely meant for younger readers, as it has a lot of repeated rhymes and sayings. ( )

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. ( )

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. ( )

The wish tree is a great book for young children. The cover is wonderful and the pictures are amazing. 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. It would be a great book to read during the holidays. ( )