My friends call me Red, and you can, too.
-- Red (Narrator) (chapter 3)

Importance: In this opening line of Chapter 3, Red addresses the reader directly, reinforcing the concept that the entire novel is a story told to the reader. This is also part of a technique the author uses in which Red spends the first quarter of the novel introducing the reader to the important characters and features of its world.

Wishtrees have a long and honorable history, going back centuries. There are many in Ireland, where they are usually hawthorns or the occasional ash tree. But you can find wishtrees all over the world.
-- Red (Narrator) (chapter 3)

Importance: This quotation is a good demonstration of Red’s commitment to diversity and connection. Red’s own status as a wishtree was founded by an Irish woman, so Red mentions the Irish tradition in particular. However, the wishtree is for all the people in the neighborhood, no matter their backgrounds...