Every year, 25,000 people stand in author Kathleen A. Bethel’s front yard to make a wish.

In her memoir, Kathleen explores how a simple tree, which started as a young girl’s science project, became a local landmark that witnesses society’s ups and downs, humanity’s overwhelming joys, greatest fears, and historic moments. The book offers an exploration of what it means to be human, and a dose of hope for the future.

The Wishing Tree offers a fascinating snapshot of our society on specific days each year. Fads and buying trends emerge as appliances, toys, and technology evolve. On a global level, the book details reactions to significant world events, natural disasters, and political scandals. On an individual level, the wishes reveal personal hardships, including those of abuse, loss, and disease. And on the brighter side, wishes tell tales of love, marriage, and family, often with humorous and unexpected results. The book of wishes archives humanity’s ability to hope, despite our struggles—and sometimes because of them.

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