WISH ON A WILLOW, by Maria Oka, Shadow Mountain, Sept. 1, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)
A girl hopes saving a magic willow tree will help her save her dad in Wish on a Willow, a middle -grade novel by Maria Oka.
Nothing about this summer is what eleven-year-old Eloise expected. Stuck at Gee-pa’s farm, she discovers Mama Willow—an enormous weeping willow whose branches shimmer in the sunlight and whisper with secrets. And when Eloise finds her daddy’s childhood journal tucked away in Gee-pa’s attic, she uncovers something even more unexpected: The tree supposedly holds magic. She isn’t sure she believes the journal’s stories . . . until she begins to see the magic for herself.
The truth is, Eloise needs a little magic. After her dad’s terrible bike accident—the reason her mom brought her to the farm in the first place—Eloise is weighed down with fear and worry. What if her daddy never gets better? What if their family is changed forever?
And to make matters worse, a smooth-talking developer announces plans to cut down Mama Willow to build a flashy new event center. Eloise can’t let that happen. With Mama Willow nearby—and two new friends at her side—Eloise holds on to the hope that the willow’s magical leaves can heal her dad. And she will do anything to protect it.
With the help of her daddy’s journal and the secrets Mama Willow holds, Eloise and her friends race to save the tree before it’s too late. Because this wish is just too big to let go. —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain
Wish on a Willow is a quiet contemporary story that deals with grief, a sick/injured parent, familial uncertainty against the backdrop of growing friendship.
The story unfolds from Eloise’s point of view. She’s lonely and scared and has been sent away to stay with a grandfather who is distant. But when she meets Kimiko and Olive, she finds community and friendship. The interactions between the three girls are the highlight here.
Wish on a Willow feels heavier overall than you’d expect. But author Maria Oka’s exploration of Eloise’s fears does feel authentic. Readers who have gone through similar tough times will be able to relate.
With short chapters (3-5 pages) and pencil illustrations throughout, Wish on a Willow feels better suited for younger middle readers. Fun twists and a touch of magic make it a sound choice.
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