The Giving Tree

by Shel Silverstein

Review of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

       The Giving Tree is my all-time favorite book.  Personally, I love the book because it takes me back to elementary school--I can remember my teacher reading the book with great emotion.  On the other hand, I have a great appreciation for the book as an educator and parent.  The Giving Tree is a book about moral character and consequences, which are two areas that should be taught to children of all ages.  The book begins by introducing the two characters in the book--a boy and a tree.  The tree loves the boy unconditionally even though the boy does not display this same form of love for the tree.  Basically, the boy uses the tree until the tree is just a stump.  At the end of the story, the tree still shows unconditional love by offering the boy (who is now an old man) a seat (the stump).  Interestingly, as an adult this story is heart-breaking, but as a child it didn't seem as though the boy was doing such a horrible thing to the tree.  The most amazing thing about this children's book is that it can be interpreted in many ways.  Also, the meaning of the book seems to evolve as you age and experience life.  If you are an educator, this book can definitly create many deep and thought-provokiing conversations.  As an individual it allows you to think about your own life and the people that have shown you unconditional love.  In addition, as a parent, The Giving Tree can remind you of the unconditional love that you should have for your child.  Make sure to add this book to your child's collection.

Review posted by Erika

       What a beautiful book.  The tree gives everything that it can and still gives more.  If only the world could learn something from Mr. Silverstein's wonderful Tree.

Review posted by Jessica

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