The Giving Tree Review

This was and still is one of my favorite books. There is a sadness to the book, but so many lessons to be learned. It teachs us about giving and unconditional love and the return to a place where we know we are loved. Think of mother's or God-they love unconditionally, never asking for anything in return, we may walk away but in the end we return to where we belong and those who love us.

I have to admit that at first I was confused by your dislike of this classic but your thoughts are well written and also accurate.

I've never read this book to a child but I have actually gifted it to a few adults in need of a little moral adjustment, in hopes they could draw their own connection.

On the other side, the story seems timely when taken very literally about our abuse and thoughtlessness towards the earth. It would be my hope that children would feel sorry for the tree and in turn learn to appreciate the gifts of nature.

Last edited on Oct 30, 2007 at 10:14PM

You're the only other person I've encountered who's expressed this. A part of me loves this book, but a part of me is like "Hey- it's a story about someone who takes and takes and takes and NEVER gives back! That's so NOT likable!"

Last edited on Oct 30, 2007 at 10:14PM

I have to disagree here. This was one of my favorite books as a kid, I think surpassed only my Harold and the Purple Crayon.

Last edited on Oct 30, 2007 at 10:15PM

I haven't read this and don't have any kids but your reasoning seems sound. The plot sounds creepy and it's similar to the problem I had with the movie "Forrest Gump." He loved the pretty girl but she couldn't have cared less about him until she was penniless and terminal. Sounds like the boy with this tree. Nice review!

--Bob

Last edited on Oct 30, 2007 at 10:15PM

My mother used to read this one to me, and all of my siblings had it read to them, too. I agree - even though it's a classic, it's not my favorite story! I'm all about Where The Wild Things Are. ;o)

Last edited on Oct 30, 2007 at 10:15PM