In a time of wishes, two books for young readers

Every week, The Thread checks in with booksellers around the country about their favorite books of the moment. This week, we spoke with Carla Ketner from Chapters Books & Gifts in Seward, Neb.In a season filled with wishes for the new year, Carla Ketner has two recommendations for young readers. The first is "Wishtree," by Katherine Applegate, for readers 8 to 12. The book's protagonist is a 216-year-old oak tree named Red, who has "seen a lot of people of many backgrounds move into and out of his neighborhood" over the years, Ketner explained. "He's been home to generations of wild animals."Red is a "wishtree" for his community: Every May 1, neighbors tie their wishes to his branches.When someone carves negative words into his trunk directed at a new family in the neighborhood, Red decides to take action."The ending is perfect for the story, and it sends a message that we all need to hear without being preachy," Ketner said. Wishtree WishtreeKetner's second recommendation is "As You Wish," by Chelsea Sedoti. It takes place in a small town in the Mojave desert, where every resident gets to make one wish on their 18th birthday, knowing it will come true.But there are rules and complications to every wish, and Eldon isn't sure what to wish for. He's watched people in his town wish for "money or beauty or athletic prowess — but those wishes have rarely lead to the anticipated happiness," Ketner said.Eldon has to choose his wish, knowing he can't wish for the one thing he truly wants."This is one of those books that tempts you to flip to the ending," Ketner said. "But don't do that.""I'm still thinking about whether Eldon made the right choice, and what I would wish for if I had the opportunity."As You Wish As You Wish