Tuesday, August 12, 2008

The Giving Tree

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein


The story of this book is simple. It is about a relationship between a boy and a tree. The tree always provides the boy with what he wants. The tree loves the boy very much and gives him anything he asks for. Many years later, the boy, an old man, returns and the tree says,"I have nothing left to give you". The old man replies that all he needs is a quiet place to sit and rest. The tree happily obliges.

This story has generated controversy and opposing opinion for its interpreted messages. On whether the tree is selfless or merely self-sacrificing and whether the boy is selfish or reasonable in his demands of the tree.

There is even some have chosen to interpret the story in terms of the relationship between the human race and the planet. We have taken a lot of resources from the earth and not given anything in return.

We have two questions for the reader to consider:
  • What is your view or your interpretation of the story?
  • Would you consider to recommend this book to your children to read?

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