Trees tell stories in the rings on their trunks and through the spirits whispering in their leaves. One particular Wishtree (Feiwel and Friends; $16.99), where people pin messages describing their hopes and dreams, can tell the story of an entire community. When a new family moves into the neighborhood, the tree understands the importance of battling prejudice with acceptance and unity. But can humans learn these powerful lessons, too? Newbery Medalist Katherine Applegate deftly interweaves her passion for environmental awareness with other timely themes such as immigration in this much-needed story for today’s complicated world. Ages 9-12.