An allegory, When Wishes Come True is an inspirational intergenerational reading experience for  wise children and sensitive adults from 8 to 108 .

Once upon a time, an Owl and a Peahen realized if they wanted to be happier,
they would have to change their lives. So, each made a wish for something
they knew they had always wanted ~ a forever special best friend. This is the
story about how their wishes came true.

“…I wish I could be with you forever.”

When Oliver Owl and Penelope Peahen make a wish for a forever special best friend,
they think they are probably asking for the impossible.

But on the night they unexpectedly meet at the magical BirdLand Ballroom, they believe this wish just might come true.

In richly detailed scenes that will spark your imagination, you will watch the friendship between Penelope and Oliver deepen as they share their enchanting worlds of nature. Following them through seasons of discovery and adventure, you will experience the same feelings, especially when a crisis threatens their happiness.

Will they be special best friends forever?
Will their love survive?

Well, it all depends on whether you believe wishes can come true.

Barbara Slater has written a meaningful and illuminating, often funny, and in many places, very moving, little gem. It is a story for all times, and all ages,

Illustrated with charm and sensitivity by Ginger Nielsen, When Wishes Come True is a compelling tale that will win your heart.

What readers have said about When Wishes Come True ~

“In poetic prose and vibrant verse, Ms. Slater tells the story of how a peahen’s practicality and a raptor’s rapture unite two birds of a very different feather. Beautifully illustrated by Ginger Nielsen, this simple allegory shows what happens when ideal love slams into gritty reality. This story of uncommon commitment and extraordinary wisdom might well become a classic.”
David W. Christner, Playwright.

“A gem of a book. If you loved Charlotte’s Web and The Little Prince, you will love When Wishes Come True. It will capture your heart.”
Dr. Arthur Mark, Professor Emeritus Early Childhood and Elementary Education.
Fellow of The Royal Society of the Arts

“Beautifully told. A tale of friendship, love, loss and acceptance that unfolds in a series of imaginative scenes sensitively rendered.”
Joan Vincent, Author
“Because Mother Liked to Dance”

“Playful and spiritual. A deeply moving and uplifting story for young and old. It reminds us of the importance of true friendship and what is worth caring about.”
Deanna Upchurch, Bereavement Coordinator/Children’s Services
Home and Hospice Care of Rhode Island

“Emotionally smart. A warm and funny story rich with layers of beautiful imagery. Using a deft touch, Barbara writes in a way that children can begin to understand an important aspect of the adult world.”
Cathryn Moskow, Holistic Health Practitioner
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When Wishes Come True includes a section titled “Suggested Discussion Questions and Activity Guide”
as well as an “Interview with the Author.”

Rachel Carson, in her posthumously published book The Sense of Wonder, wrote ~
“If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement and mystery of the world we live in.”

“Listen to “Oliver’s Song”