Module 1 - The Giving Tree

Module 1 – The Giving Tree

Book Summary –
This book tells the sweet story of the relationship between a boy and a tree as the boy grows older.  At every stage in the boy’s life, the tree is able to provide for the boy.  This makes the tree happy because the tree loves the boy more than anything.

APA Reference –
Silverstein, S.  (1964).  The giving tree.  New York: Harper and Row Publishers.

My Impressions –
This story is so sweet.  It is really a story for all ages as one would get different aspects of the book as one grows older.  As a child, it is probably just a cute story.  As one ages and sees changes in all aspects of life, this story really hits home about aging and how relationships can change, but always be important, regardless of age.  More appreciated as an adult, the simplicity of the book and illustrations are truly meant for people in all stages of life.

Professional Review –
But the boy stayed away for a long time... And the tree was sad. and then one day the boy came back and the tree shook with joy and she said, "Come, Boy, climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and be happy.
This popular classic of modern children's literature was first published in 1963 and has been embraced both by children and adults. It has just been released with a CD narration of the story by Shel Silverstein. This parable teaches lessons on love and acceptance, is simply told. It is illustrated with black and white line drawings and a straightforward text describing how a little boy comes to visit the "giving tree" every day. The tree gives the boy everything from its apples to a place to swing and slide. As the boy grows up, he demands more and more from the tree until finally the tree seems to have nothing left to give. At the end, the boy is an old man and returns to the tree and finds that the tree provides him with one more thing.
The CD operates well, but the recording is not perfectly clear as Mr. Silverstein is close to the microphone at times. But children will love hearing his tender and soulful voice and the melodious harmonica background music. The recording is close to six minutes long and fits into a pocket inside the back cover.
The book's theme of love and the cycle of life will resonate with adults and will provide many discussion points when shared with children.
Highly Recommended.
Douglas, L. (2004). The giving tree (book). CM: Canadian Review Of Materials,    10(21),             N.PAG.

Library Uses –

The librarian can use this book to point out the selflessness of the tree.  Together, the children can point out ways that they can be selfless at home and draw pictures as representations of how they can be selfless.