The Giving Tree
Author & Illustrator: Shel Silverstein
Can you say controversy?
Almost since it was
published, audiences are
divided.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, originally published on October 7, 1964, remains a compelling and thought-provoking picture book that has sparked both admiration and controversy over the decades. This timeless story, with its simple yet profound narrative, continues to evoke strong emotions and discussions, making it a valuable addition to any bookshelf.
The book follows the life of a boy and his relationship with a tree that loves him unconditionally. From his childhood to his old age, the boy continually takes from the tree—its leaves, branches, and eventually, its trunk—until nothing but a stump remains. Despite never receiving thanks, the tree gives everything it has to the boy, demonstrating a level of devotion that raises important questions about love, sacrifice, and the boundaries within relationships.
Silverstein’s illustrations are minimalistic yet powerful, perfectly complementing the text. The clean, sparse artwork allows readers to focus on the emotional depth of the story, leaving space for personal reflection. The lack of visual clutter also helps young readers engage with the narrative, fostering their imagination and encouraging them to think critically about the story’s themes.
One of the key strengths of The Giving Tree is its ability to be interpreted in multiple ways. Some view the tree as a representation of a parent or caregiver, offering unconditional love and sacrifice for a child. Others see the tree as a symbol of divine love, reflecting a spiritual dimension of selflessness and grace. However, these interpretations are not without their critiques. The book has been criticized for promoting an unhealthy model of relationships, where one party gives endlessly while the other takes without reciprocation or gratitude. This perspective frames the story as a cautionary tale about the dangers of self-sacrifice and the importance of setting healthy boundaries.
The boy’s behavior has also been scrutinized, with many readers highlighting his narcissism and lack of gratitude. As he grows older, the boy returns to the tree only when he needs something, never acknowledging the tree’s sacrifices. This portrayal has led to interpretations of the book as a commentary on human selfishness and the exploitation of nature, reflecting broader environmental concerns.
Given the complex themes within The Giving Tree, it is crucial to engage children in discussions that encourage critical thinking. Rather than presenting the story as a simple tale of love and sacrifice, parents and educators can use it as an opportunity to explore deeper questions. For example, asking children whether it was right for the boy to take so much from the tree without giving anything in return can lead to valuable discussions about reciprocity, gratitude, and the importance of mutual respect in relationships. Another question might focus on the tree’s motivation: why does she continue to give, even when it harms her? This can prompt conversations about self-care and the necessity of setting boundaries, even in relationships built on love.
In terms of educational value, The Giving Tree is a powerful tool for teaching children about the complexities of love, gratitude, and the consequences of their actions. The book’s minimalist text and illustrations make it accessible to young readers, while its layered meanings offer rich material for discussion and reflection. It can be used in the classroom to explore themes of environmental stewardship, as the boy’s continual taking from the tree can be seen as a metaphor for humanity’s exploitation of nature. Additionally, the story provides a platform for discussing emotional intelligence, particularly the importance of recognizing and expressing gratitude.
The Giving Tree is particularly well-suited for children aged 6-8, but its themes resonate with readers of all ages. The book’s enduring presence on bookshelves speaks to its ability to provoke thought and inspire conversation, making it a valuable resource for teaching children about the importance of balance in relationships, the consequences of selfishness, and the power of love.
The Giving Tree (Support an Independent Bookstore)
The Giving Tree (Hardcover at Amazon)*
The Giving Tree (El Arbol Generoso) (In Spanish at Amazon)*
If you’d like to preview the book, here’s read aloud by Shel Silverstein himself:
More books for this Age Group can be found here.
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Its so interesting, I read this book as an adult and hate it because (to me) it sets up the narrative of unconditional giving as opposed to unconditional love. It idolizes the narrative that women need to give everything they have (to the patriarchy, no less) in order to be deemed worthy.
I also follow the principles of giving my kids unconditional love, but to me that includes drawing healthy, concrete boundaries, and not giving everything I have (because then I’ll be done).
Your perspective on being the parent you needed actually resounds with me because in Indian culture women are encouraged to sacrifice their whole selves on the altar of family (and often do) but in return total obedience and conformity is expected of the children. I wish my mom hadn’t sacrificed herself so much or that she didn’t think of my divergent path as a direct insult. Trying to reverse that trend for the next generation.
Thank you so much for your comment!
I agree with you that the relationship it presents is a very complicated relationship. I love that the book presents an uncomplicated picture of unconditional love I believe is necessary in a parent/child relationship, at least while the child is growing up. And, certainly in the target demographic of 6-8. The tree, to the average 6-8 year-old is showing her affection by giving everything she has. By always being there. By always being present.
Yes, setting concrete boundaries is important; very important. But, I do think that we sometimes project adult understandings unto things that children understand more simply. Children need to feel safe–part of that safety comes from understanding that there is nothing a parent wouldn’t do or give. The book, as I mentioned in the review, can lead to a continued lesson about how the “snot” kid should have acted. Modeling of a healthy relationship has to happen over time; not only in the context of a story. It looks like you’ve got it all down!
Alex, I appreciate the perspective of parents giving unconditional love to their children, and making them feel safe. It’s the right message for children. But allowing children to keep taking from their parents until there’s nothing left of them is not the best message to give them.
I would have had no issue with the book if, for instance, after the boy grows up, he brings his family to visit the stump and then he and his family plant new trees around it. SOMETHING to show the kid has an appreciation for the tree’s sacrifice. I mean, once he becomes a parent, what’s HIS message to his children?
Anjali, although you came at it from a different direction, thank you for expressing some of my feelings. The relationship as shown in the book is not healthy. I do not believe that any parent needs to give away every part of themself in order for their kids to feel safe and loved.
Karen,
And I think that your discussion points are EXCELLENT points to engage a child in the reading and precisely why the book stays on my bookshelf. Good storybooks are tools to help teach lessons and entertain. For me, The Giving Tree accomplishes both of those objectives.
Hi Alex,
“The Giving Tree,” is an all-time favorite for me.
This time, I felt parts of the Prodigal Son story without the hoopla of a huge feast, instead, when the boy (as a man) returns home to the tree, he is given what he needs: a place to rest and be still.
What comes to mind is also the Hero’s Journey with the young boy in the idyllic Paradise as the book opens – everyone is happy. And, then comes the life journey where egoic / material ideals take precedence. However, the tree, much like the Diivne Creator is always ready to Love – even at the end, the tree becomes happy – complete again as the old man finds peace on the tree stump.
The joy and happiness of the the boy swinging on the branches is transformed to finding a peaceful space after a rugged journey thorugh materialism. The Hero has come full circle from his creation out of Love to Love, symbolized by the ever giivng tree..
Peace,
Karen