
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the big, prickly feelings of envy or 'fairness' that arise when someone else receives a special opportunity. It is a perfect choice for navigating those moments when a sibling or friend gets something your child desperately wants for themselves. The story follows a girl who discovers a rare, magical wish and must decide whether to use it for her own desires or to help those around her. It beautifully models the transition from self-centered longing to the deeper satisfaction of empathy and communal joy. Appropriate for ages 4 to 8, this book is an essential tool for parents who want to normalize the feeling of jealousy while gently guiding their child toward the transformative power of kindness.
The book handles themes of social inequality and personal longing through a metaphorical lens. There are no heavy real-world traumas, making it a safe, secular space to explore the concept of sacrifice and altruism. The resolution is hopeful and empowering.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewA 6-year-old who is currently struggling with 'only child' syndrome or a child who has recently felt slighted during a playdate or birthday party where they weren't the center of attention.
This book can be read cold. The illustrations are lush and detailed, so parents should be prepared to pause and let the child spot the 'wish' on each page. A parent likely just witnessed their child have a meltdown because a friend got a new toy, or perhaps heard the phrase, 'It's not fair that they have that and I don't!'
For a 4-year-old, the takeaway is the magic of the wish and the bright colors. For a 7 or 8-year-old, the focus shifts to the ethical dilemma of the protagonist and the internal satisfaction of making a selfless choice.
Unlike many books on sharing that feel preachy, this one uses the high-stakes 'magical wish' trope to make the choice feel truly significant and earned.
The story centers on a young girl who finds a literal, physical wish. As she carries it, she encounters various friends and creatures who are facing difficult or sad situations. Initially, she intends to keep the wish for her own 'perfect' purpose, but as she witnesses the needs of others, she begins to weigh the value of her own desires against the impact she could have on her community. Ultimately, she realizes that a wish shared or used to heal others creates a collective joy that far outweighs a solitary gain.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.