The Wishing Tree is about the excitement of making wishes, the anticipation over waiting for them to come true, and the futility of making unrealistic ones.  It is also about the love between a boy and his grandmother, and the realization that sometimes, we already possess the most important things in life.
 

Book Reviews - The Wishing Tree

Asian Review of Books:  Roseanne Thong has followed up her first three successful books for young readers with a delightful tale with local references but universal appeal.  Thong's story is illustrated in vivid colour by Connie McLennan to complete a pleasingly touching book that educates as well as appeals.

 

South China Morning Post:  A charming story, an arts and crafts activity, a social studies lesson, and a souvenir of Hong Kong--all between two covers.  Verdict: A Wish Granted.

 

Booklist:  Although the simple, moving story is an excellent choice for Lunar New Year read-alouds and will work well to open class discussions about cultural traditions, it will appeal throughout the year.

 

Midwest Book Review:  A deftly woven and lovely picturebook story.

 

Skipping Stones Honor Award for Multicultural and International Awareness, Skipping Stones Multicultural Children's Magazine, 2006