The Giving Tree by Shell Silverstein is a story about a boy and a tree who both love each other.The boy always plays with the tree but the boy grew up and grew old that he cannot play with the tree anymore. How wonderful! Shel Silverstein made that connection with trees decades ago. Hands shooting up all over the room – this story really unearths some issues. The Giving Tree considers the nature of altruism and the obligation to give of oneself in a relationship. a favorite book of mine. His poetry is the best for children! In this time of social distancing, the trees are reaching out to hug anyone who needs one. The way I give was brought on by the way my life has been touched. , I saw the notice in my email. I am glad you are able to read to this young boy. You’re the only person I know. I have only shown you a few of the illustrations. I’ll keep good thoughts for him. And I do know the Forever Tree. I was invited to a birthday party of a fellow classmate (Jem). Later the boy (a man) returned to the tree. Copyright © 1999 - 2020 GradeSaver LLC. . At the request of John Howell, I will read aloud the story, first thing in the morning. It really is a wonderful book. I was 11 and I saw it as a child/parent story. Best to you, Marlene. BACK; NEXT ; Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer. I just wanted her to have something that she could use. Once there was a tree who loved a little boy. I’m glad to see that Miles is recovering well from his injury. Mother set a tradition that twice a year we would do a give back that would give us a perspective into the lives of those less fortunate. Wonderful post, Jennie. A while later the boy returned (as an older man) and said he wanted a boat to sail away in. resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel. And then their moment of gratification when the child chooses to sit with them for awhile. The Giving Tree came well after my own childhood…the tale of Johnny Appleseed being the arboreal influence in my life. this section. Most importantly, I will always have those moments where my life was touched in simple smiles and grand gestures or something in-between . Growing up without ‘needs’ also came with a gratitude and understanding that not everyone in the world lives the kind of life that I was blessed to have. I am always honored to be here. Smorgasbord - Variety is the Spice of Life. Every line in the book has an illustration. Those moments are someone thinking about me, and with that gift, I want to pass on to others that I am thinking about them. Change ), You are commenting using your Facebook account. Just say the word and I’ll video it this afternoon and post it in the morning. A guest author on my blog recently said of all the characters in books he would prefer to spend time with Winnie the Pooh or Paddington. You’re not the first to say so. I am deeply touched. Without them, we could not exist. Michael, Such a treasure of Book Jennie, and you are such a treasure as teacher… And Miles has you as such a treasure in his healing process…. This book is a treasure. And it still makes me sad and a little uncomfortable, which I reckon is just fine. And many thanks to you, Sally.