The Giving Tree

by Shel Silverstein
The Giving Tree cover
Good Books rating 3.48
Children's Fiction
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Waterstones
Hardback • £12.99–£13.99
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Format • £12.34
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Technical
  • ID: 1648
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780060099404
  • Published: 2002-03-01
  • Formats: 28
  • Reviews: 4

In this timeless classic by Shel Silverstein, a young boy forms a deep bond with a giving tree that provides for him without expecting anything in return. Through beautifully illustrated pages, the story unfolds as the boy grows from a child to an old man, always finding comfort and support in the tree's generosity. /n/nThe Giving Tree is a poignant exploration of the relationship between a parent and child, as well as the cycle of life. It's a story that resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us of the importance of gratitude and the true meaning of love.

Reviews
The Invisible Melon · 2025-04-01
profound 4.50

The story is seen as a metaphor for life and love, highlighting how desires grow with what we have and that possessions don't equate to fulfillment. It's a profound exploration of selflessness and the cost of giving.

This reviewer sees 'The Giving Tree' as a profound metaphor for life, love, and the complexities of human relationships. They appreciate how the story illustrates the cycle of giving and taking, and how our desires can grow insatiably. The reviewer also notes that the story subtly critiques the idea that possessions bring happiness, making it a thought-provoking read for all ages. They believe it's a story that resonates deeply, offering a poignant commentary on the nature of love and sacrifice.

Quick quotes

    The story is a metaphor for life, the things we do for love, and it shows that the more that you have, the more you want, and that possessions do not equate to happiness.

    It's a profound exploration of selflessness and the cost of giving.

    The Giving Tree is a timeless tale that invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the nature of giving.

The Invisible Melon · 2025-04-01
thoughtful 4.00

The story is seen as a metaphor for life and love, highlighting that possessions do not equate to happiness. It's a poignant reflection on the cycle of giving and taking.

This review delves into the deeper meanings of The Giving Tree, interpreting it as a commentary on life's cycles and the nature of love. The reviewer appreciates the story's ability to convey complex emotions through simple illustrations and text. They also note how the book subtly critiques materialism and the often one-sided nature of relationships. The story's enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with readers of all ages, offering a timeless message about the balance between giving and taking.

Quick quotes

    The story is a metaphor for life, the things we do for love, and it shows that the more that you have, the more you want.

    Possessions do not equate to happiness.

    It's a poignant reflection on the cycle of giving and taking.

Christopher Roosen · C Roosen · 2021-05-29
critical 1.00

The reviewer criticizes the story for promoting a destructive and selfish relationship dynamic, where the tree's selflessness is seen as harmful.

C Roosen has a strong critique of 'The Giving Tree,' viewing it as a story that promotes a destructive and selfish relationship dynamic. They argue that the tree's unconditional giving is not healthy, but rather a depiction of a one-sided and harmful relationship. The reviewer believes that the story sends a negative message about the nature of love and sacrifice, making it a problematic read. They see it as a tale that glorifies self-destruction in the name of love, which they find deeply troubling.

Quick quotes

    The tree literally consumes herself in providing for the boy, leaving her with nothing left to give.

    I intensely dislike the message this gives. It's a bad example of a relationship.

    The Giving Tree promotes a destructive and selfish dynamic that is not healthy.

Goodreads · 2015-01-01
moving 4.40

The book is described as a tender and moving parable that touches on themes of sadness and consolation. It's a story that offers comfort and reflection to readers of all ages.

Goodreads users often highlight The Giving Tree as a deeply moving and tender story that resonates with a wide range of emotions. The parable's simplicity belies its profound message, making it a beloved classic. Reviewers appreciate how the book addresses themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, offering a sense of consolation to its readers. The story's universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke empathy and reflection, making it a timeless piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    This is a tender story, touched with sadness, aglow with consolation.

    Shel Silverstein has created a moving parable for readers of all ages.

    It's a story that offers comfort and reflection.

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