The Giving Tree

Amazon.com

To say that this particular apple tree is a "giving tree" is an understatement. In Shel Silverstein's popular tale of few words and simple line drawings, a tree starts out as a leafy playground, shade provider, and apple bearer for a rambunctious little boy. Making the boy happy makes the tree happy, but with time it becomes more challenging for the generous tree to meet his needs. When he asks for money, she suggests that he sell her apples. When he asks for a house, she offers her branches for lumber. When the boy is old, too old and sad to play in the tree, he asks the tree for a boat. She suggests that he cut her down to a stump so he can craft a boat out of her trunk. He unthinkingly does it. At this point in the story, the double-page spread shows a pathetic solitary stump, poignantly cut down to the heart the boy once carved into the tree as a child that said "M.E. + T." "And then the tree was happy... but not really." When there's nothing left of her, the boy returns again as an old man, needing a quiet place to sit and rest. The stump offers up her services, and he sits on it. "And the tree was happy." While the message of this book is unclear (Take and take and take? Give and give and give? Complete self-sacrifice is good? Complete self-sacrifice is infinitely sad?), Silverstein has perhaps deliberately left the book open to interpretation. (All ages) --Karin Snelson

Book Description

"Once there was a tree . . . and she loved a little boy." So begins a story of unforgettable perception, beautifully written and illustrated by the gifted and versatile Shel Silverstein.

Every day the boy would come to the tree to eat her apples, swing from her branches, or slide down her trunk . . . and the tree was happy. But as the boy grew older he began to want more from the tree, and the tree gave and gave.

This is a tender story, touched with sadness, aglow with consolation. Shel Silverstein has created a moving parable for readers of all ages that offers an affecting interpretation of the gift of giving and a serene acceptance of another's capacity to love in return.

Customer Reviews:

Definitely a classic.......2007-10-20

I thought my 18 month old would be too young for this book but she actually loves it. It is a little long for her age but I started doing finger plays (like climbing the tree, swinging on the branches, and eating the apples) along with the story to keep her interest.

I happen to appreciate its simplicity.......2007-10-17

I was all set to write a review on this beautiful, timeless tale of unconditional love, but after reading some of the "attacks" on here, I feel I must write to that. I'm confused. I've treasured this book both as a child and as an adult. I've always equated the tree's role to that of a parent. We give until there's nothing left to give and we love unconditionally, even when the child doesn't appreciate it. So is that considered an abusive relationship? I think not. Let's not "read" into something like this too much. I'm pretty sure Shel meant it to be simple and beautiful, much like a mother's love.

An Important Lesson About Giving.......2007-10-04

The book "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein is a classic children's tale that teaches a lesson about the importance of trees in our environment. A tree can be used for many things (provides food, shade, a place to play, etc).

The text is simple and sweet. It follows the life of a little boy through old age who feels a fondness for one tree that can always be counted on to have fun and provide help when needed.

Yes, the boy was selfish at times but this story is also surprisingly identifiable. Children do tend to take or ask more of us than we can give. However, the tree, much like a parent, doesn't abandon the boy or expect much from him. As long as the boy is there, the tree is happy. And we are treated with the message that as long as there's enough love in a relationship, it can withstand anything, even faults.

A Timeless Parable on Giving .......2007-10-03

While simple & short, this book is one of my all-time favorites. I have had a copy since I was a boy (decades ago). This story of a selfless tree and a self-centered boy/man has multiple deep implications or messages, which I would encourage readers to expound upon. I could write pages about the meaning(s) of this book, but will concisely say that I wish I were more like the tree and less like the boy. It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Unconditional Love is not a license to abuse others.......2007-10-03

There are many stories out there about unconditional love that doesn't involve a life long cycle of abuse and abandonment. This story describes an unhealthy relationship between a boy and a tree. The term "co-dependent" comes to mind. Is my child supposed to identify with the tree that is treated like a doormat it's entire life or the narcissistic child who takes and takes? Is this a social commentary on the giving nature of females (the tree is female) or the ruthless and thoughtless destruction by males in today's world?

I would not want my daughter to model herself after the tree, giving and giving in a destructive cycle, giving so much of herself in order to please others until there is nothing left and never receiving anything in return. I'd hate to think I taught her to be a doormat, or that I'd given her the impression that it's ok to be in a destructive relationship because "he says he loves me". If this were a marriage, I can just imagine the wife saying "I know he beats me, sleeps with other women, and drinks a lot, but it's ok because he still comes home to me on the weekends."

If I had a son, I would not want him to think that he can destroy the one that loves him to get what he wants. He does not even consider that his actions are destroying the tree until there is nothing left but a stump. Am I teaching that it is ok to take and never give back? To not think about the feelings of others?

There are better ways of teaching a child about love, giving and compassion than this book. I want more for my children and their relationships than that. Denying them any of their wants or expecting them to make their own way in the world doesn't mean that I don't love them unconditionally.

Average customer rating:

MY HEART STILL SOFTENS....
A great gift for parents-to-be
A moving story for all ages
A Most Favorite Book of Ours!

The Giving Tree Gift Edition
Shel Silverstein
Manufacturer: HarperCollins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 006124001X
Release Date: 2007-04-24

Book Description

"Once there was a tree . . . and she loved a little boy." So begins a story of unforgettable perception, beautifully written and illustrated by the gifted and versatile Shel Silverstein.

Customer Reviews:

MY HEART STILL SOFTENS...........2007-09-17

When I read this book, even YEARS after I first read it, my hear softens and well, yes, I get a bit teary eyed....
This was one of the best gifts I got from my mom! And am REALLY excited I will be able now to share it with my godson!!!! I even bought one for when I have kids!!

A great gift for parents-to-be.......2007-09-15

This book is wonderful. My husband and I do not have children, yet we have bought almost ten copies. They are great to give to expecting parents as a gift. We love the message of unconditional giving. It reflects beliefs we have and want to encourage others by it. I can't think of a better gift. Especially through Amazon. It is the best price I have found.

A moving story for all ages.......2007-07-03

I remember reading The Giving Tree a decade ago, and being moved to tears by the simple story of an apple tree that loves a little boy so much that it gives, and gives, and keeps on giving, till there's nothing left to give. This is a story that bears many interpretations...and will touch the hearts of all who read it, young & old. I am now a mother of a two-year-old and am reading it to her...in the hope that some day she too will come to appreciate the story of a love that keeps on giving.

A Most Favorite Book of Ours!.......2007-03-31

I love this book sooooo much! I read it to our 2 young girls often (ages 3 and 4.5) and still get choked up when I read it. It is a simple book with simple words and pictures but has an oh so deep and meaningful message. I think our girls will understand it differently over the years and only hope they grow to understand and appreciate its message. I give this book to friends and glue a picture of our girls along with a dedication into the cover as I like to give gifts that are also special to us.

If you like Shel's other children's works, I believe you will like this book as well.

Average customer rating:

A humble, enthusiastically recommended story
Beautiful book with an important topic
Something we should all read-a real pleasure!
Very Timely Subject Matter

The Leaf that was Left
Kim Bryan-Brown
Manufacturer: Them Potatoes
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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The Giving Tree

ASIN: 0977256405

Product Description

This picture book for young readers contains a timely story told in a timeless fashion. When one young girl with so very much feels nonetheless that something's missing, she learns that the secret to "having things" may mean simply leaving them for others. A 32 page hardcover children's book. Beautiful full-color acrylic-on-watercolor-paper illustrations. Perfect for bedtime reading, or for elementary classroom and library read-alouds.

Customer Reviews:

A humble, enthusiastically recommended story.......2007-02-04

The Leaf that was Left is both a picturebook and a thoughtful parable for parents to share with their children. Young Louella knows the love of her family, her friends, and her pet cat, and she owns many nice toys and things; yet she can't help feeling that something is missing in her life. She doesn't know what it is. Is it possible to be very lucky, and loved, and still be missing something? While Louella is still trying to figure out the riddle, she ventures out into the snow with her parents and sees the very last leaf of the season outlined in beautiful frost. Her dad offers to pluck the last leaf and give it to her, and she considers the leaf as a gift, with the private knowledge that she would be the very last person to see it on the tree. But she realizes there is greater value and satisfaction in leaving the last leaf there, so others can appreciate its beauty. Featuring truly beautiful color paintings, The Leaf that was Left is a humble, enthusiastically recommended story especially for parents who are trying to help their children understand that there is more to life than having and collecting things, despite constant pressure from advertising in a consumption-oriented society.

Beautiful book with an important topic.......2006-12-13

Both of my young children loved this book! It is a beautiful story that helped me start the important discussion with my kids about not always needing "everything" but that sometimes your greatest joy can come from leaving things for other people to enjoy. It is a captivating story with beautiful illustrations. I highly recommend it!

Something we should all read-a real pleasure!.......2006-09-07

Beautifully written, with gorgeous illustrations, The Leaf that was Left is one of those rare childrens books that is as pleasurable for the adult reading it as for the child listening. It's a story whose message, that gratitude and appreciation can make you feel better than any "thing" ever could, stays with you long after you finish reading it, prompting wonderful and important conversations with your children.

Very Timely Subject Matter.......2006-08-24

This is a beautifully written and illustrated book. It is ideal for introducing the topic of materialsim and STUFF to your children, or to students in the classroom or library. Without guilt-trips or over-the-top 'messaging' on the topic, this story gives children a basis for understanding giving, or, more to the point, simply "not having." This is a high-quality hardcover book that, in the words of my friend's six year old daughter, "Calms me down." A perfect read-aloud picture book.

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Under the Lemon Moon- a wonderful book
Twin four-year-olds love it -- so will your kids
A charming tale heartwarming for both child and parent
Perfect partnership in this author and illustrator.

Bajo la Luna de Limon
Edith Hope Fine , and Eida De LA Vega
Manufacturer: Lee & Low Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1880000903

Amazon.com

One night young Rosalinda wakes up to a "Wsss--shhh--snap!" outside. She slips out of bed and peers out the front door into the darkness. Way back by the lemon tree, something is moving. It's a man stuffing lemons, her very own lemons, into a cloth sack! To make matters worse, by the end of the week her lemon tree is very sick. As she wanders through the Mexican countryside seeking tree-healing advice, she sees the mysterious Night Man at the mercado--and he is selling her beautiful limones! She summons the help of La Anciana, a wise old woman with gentle eyes, and it is finally she who provides a creative solution. That night, Rosalinda sleeps under her lemon tree, and as she slumbers, "Her tree glowed golden in the night, dripping with lemons as big and round as baby moons." Her tree is magically cured! The next day she hands out the amazingly fat lemons, one by one, giving the very last lemon to the Night Man at the mercado. "Siembra las semillas. Plant the seeds," she tells him as he tilts his head towards his hungry family. "For you and for them." He agrees to do as she says, and Rosalinda's heart is "as full as a lemon moon." This simple tale of human compassion will appeal to young children on many levels. They'll be alarmed about the thief, concerned about the sick tree that makes Rosalinda so sad, relieved to see the tree in full fruit, and happy to see how kind and generous Rosalinda is in the end. (Click to see a sample spread. Text ©1999 by Edith Hope Fine. Illustrations ©1999 by Rene King Moreno, reproduced with permission of Lee & Low Books, Inc.) (Ages 3 and older) --Karin Snelson

Book Description

One night, Rosalinda is awakened by a noise in the garden. Someone is stealing lemons from her beloved tree! She consults a wise old woman, who offers a creative way for Rosalinda to help her tree - and the Night Man who was driven to steal from it. This gentle story, with glowing illustrations, helps young readers discover how it feels to get gifts - and to give them.

Customer Reviews:

Under the Lemon Moon- a wonderful book.......2005-04-11

Edith Hope Fine's Under the Lemon Moon is a book with a big heart. Readers of all ages will enjoy this modern day folk tale. There is much to be learned, and even more to be felt from the pages of this book. The beautifully rendered illustrations are a lovely compliment to the book's poetic text. Under the Lemon Moon is a touching, beautiful and memorable read. This book would be a great addition to your library- and a great gift for kids of all ages.

Twin four-year-olds love it -- so will your kids.......1999-04-16

I have been reading "Under The Lemon Moon" to four-year-old twins before bed every night this week. When we read, they become entranced by the story. They also enjoy searching for the characters in the beautiful illustrations. There are many lessons to be learned from this story, including forgiveness. I highly recommend this book!

A charming tale heartwarming for both child and parent.......1999-03-03

This engaging book is a wonderful tool to help young children gain brief insight into Mexican culture. With basic Spanish included in a glossary, reading Under the Lemon Moon to your children may be the perfect way to stimulate interest in and discussion of foreign language. Perhaps more significant than exposure to other cultures, this entertaining tale teaches initiative, principles, and respect. The harmonious blend of captivating artwork and thoughtful plot make this story a must for all children over the age of three.

Perfect partnership in this author and illustrator........1999-02-18

AFter hearing "Under the Lemon Moon" read aloud to a group of 15 kindergarten students, I knew my original assessment was correct - kids will love this story! The illustrations so enhance the author's tale that it is hard to imagine one without the other. The glossary is vital, and helped the children recognize the Spanish words in context. The librarian/reader fielded such comments as: "That girl is really nice",and "the old man shouldn't have stolen the lemons, but he wasn't bad". Then they discussed how many of the class liked to eat lemons without sugar. Several asked if they could check the book out - always the clincher!

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What You Can Expect
Provides an observation of cultural diversity
A sensitive message set in touching prose

The Nature of Generosity
William Kittredge
Manufacturer: Vintage
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0679756876
Release Date: 2001-11-13

Book Description

The Nature of Generosity is at once a natural sequel to the acclaimed memoir Hole in the Sky and an entirely unique masterwork from one of the finest writers of the American West.

Taking as his topic the "ordinary yearning to take physical and emotional care," William Kittredge embarks upon a literary and philosophical grand tour that explores the very core of who we are. Whether he's recalling a childhood in Oregon, touring Europe, or studying photographs of Japanese gardens in a bookstore in New York City, Kittredge's connections are as unexpected as they are inspiring. Shattering the myth that survival of the fittest means "survival of the violent, or the cruelest, or the selfish," Kittredge imagines a world in which altruism dominates--and offers ample evidence that this is not an unreachable utopian ideal.

Customer Reviews:

What You Can Expect.......2002-02-27

I'm glad to see this book in paperback, and I hope it is successful. Kittredge deserves readers, and my particular hope is that the success of this book will bring his masterpiece, "A Hole In the Sky" back into print.

But my own reading of this book is complicated. I felt a bit misled by the title, which makes the book sound like a treatise, or at least meditations on a single theme. Generosity figures in the book, of course, but this is not a theme that obviously holds this book together. It is also being billed as the sequel or perhaps second volume of his memoir/meditation, "A Hole in the Sky," which it is in a sense, but for me it lacks the autobiographical and emotional tension that made that prior work so powerful. I found this book looser, and its autobiographical exposition or reportage is less interesting that the thoughts and historical information he weaves into it. In short, for me this book is brilliant in parts, combined with sections that are pretty mundane and not all that well connected. So in my own perhaps odd system of values, I couldn't reccommend buying this book in hardback, but I can reccommend buying the paperback. I find myself returning to various parts of the book, but I doubt if I will read it front to back again. That's fine, of course--we use books in all kinds of ways, and a few lines can be just as precious as a thousand pages, and a reader like me can be just as grateful to Kittredge for writing and publishing it.

Provides an observation of cultural diversity.......2001-04-28

William Kittredge's Nature of Generosity blends a memoir of the author's early life on his family's ranch with a travel account of his search for diversity around the world. With a definite philosophical twist, this provides an observation of cultural diversity and human nature which is filled with interesting insights.

A sensitive message set in touching prose.......2000-12-09

"The Nature of Generosity" continues the personal story William Kittredge began in "Hole in the Sky" (1993), a sobering but eloquent anti-myth about growing up and growing away from his family roots.

Like Ivan Doig's magnum opus, "This House of Sky," this resumed memoir explores Kittredge's youth in the West and the influences of family, landscape, and a dismayingly complex "outside" world on personal values. In the end, he seeks a world that is less dismaying and less complex, one where the "endless project" of generosity breeds peace and plenty. Man's primitively selfish and combative behavior, he says, is not only bad for the human race, it will ultimately destroy the Earth if unchecked. Kittredge's premise: Man has a moral and spiritual obligation to his planet and his memories to be kinder and gentler.

His poetic petition is both personal and panoramic. Its genesis is a 60-something writer's memory of childhood, of travels in diverse landscapes (and mindscapes) such as Montana, Venice, New York City, the heartbroken Andalusian hills of Federico Garcia Lorca , and the French village of Les Crottes, where Nazis executed the entire population -- 17 souls -- in the desperate fury of defeat near the end of World War II. In the end, "The Nature of Generosity" is an eloquent philosophical treatise, a sublime travelogue and a visceral memoir of an Oregon boyhood that straddled the Depression and World War II, and it all grows from the taproot of sensual, but fleeting, images long lost.

On this journey through time and space, the reader is accompanied by eclectic companions: Pablo Neruda, Piet Mondrian, Joseph Brodsky, Niccolo Machiavelli, Walt Whitman, Vladimir Nabokov, Mark Twain, Aristotle and Annie Dillard, among others. Others flash past like ghostly hitchhikers on dusky roadsides: Vance Valorida, a cowboy's cowboy who dies alone, or Oscar and Jo Kittredge, the author's own parents, whom he describes as "secret radicals" who simply forgot how to talk to each other.

Kittredge is at his lyrical best when exploring the place of storytelling and the storytelling of place. To him, the future is mapped by stories.

Book Description

Once there was a little tree ... and she loved a little boy.

So begins a story of unforgettable perception, beautifully written and illustrated by the gifted and versatile Shel Silverstein.

Every day the boy would come to the tree to eat her apples, swing from her branches, or slide down her trunk ... and the tree was happy. But as the boy grew older he began to want more from the tree, and the tree gave and gave and gave.

Customer Reviews:

GREAT BOOK FOR ALL AGES.......2002-04-23

I have bought a copy of this book for my kids and all of my nieces and nephews .. and any friend or family member who has had a baby - the story is relevant from an early age through a lifetime.

The Man Who Planted Trees: Generosity of Spirit as a Source of Happiness

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The Man Who Planted Trees: Generosity of Spirit as a Source of Happiness
Jean Giono , and Frederick Back
Manufacturer: Heron Dance Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1933937165

Book Description

The Man Who Planted Trees is the story of a shepherd, Elzard Bouffier, who lives alone with his sheep not far from a drought-stricken and windswept hamlet. He is man of few words who lives in harmony with nature. After the death of his wife and child, he chooses to devote the rest of his life to a patient and anonymous endeavor, which ultimately adds beauty and sustenance to the human and animal communities in the mountains where he lives.

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