TL;DR
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is a poignant story about a boy and a tree, highlighting the themes of unconditional love and the consequences of selfishness.
What is The Giving Tree about
The Giving Tree is a timeless classic written and illustrated by Shel Silverstein. It tells the story of a deeply loving tree and a boy who forms a relationship with it. As the boy grows older, his needs change, and he repeatedly takes from the tree, which gives selflessly until it has nothing left to offer. This moving parable conveys themes of giving, love, and the consequences of selfishness, resonating with readers of all ages.
The Giving Tree 4 Key Takeaways
Introduction: The boy and the tree
The story begins with a tree that loves a little boy. The boy visits the tree daily to eat apples, swing from its branches, and rest in its shade.
The boy's changing needs
As the boy grows older, his visits become less frequent. He starts asking the tree for more: money, a house, and a boat.
The tree's sacrifices
The tree gives everything it has to the boy—its apples to sell, its branches to build a house, and its trunk to make a boat. Each time, the boy takes what he needs and leaves, while the tree is left depleted but happy to give.
The boy's final visit
In his old age, the boy returns to the tree, now just a stump. He doesn’t need much anymore, only a quiet place to sit. The tree offers its stump as a seat, and the boy rests there, and the tree is happy.
The Giving Tree Videos
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein | Read Aloud Children's Book
Top The Giving Tree Quotes
- 'Once there was a tree... and she loved a little boy.'
- 'And the tree was happy.'
Who should read The Giving Tree?
The Giving Tree is suitable for young readers in Pre-K to Second Grade due to its simple language and profound message. Adults will also find value in its themes of gratitude and selflessness, making it a meaningful read for all ages.
The Giving Tree Best Reviews
- 'Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree is a moving parable for readers of all ages. It beautifully portrays the act of giving and the challenges of receiving endlessly.' - The New York Times
People also liked these summaries
The Giving Tree FAQs
What is the book The Giving Tree about?
The Giving Tree is about the relationship between an apple tree and a boy, highlighting themes of giving, love, and the consequences of selfishness as the boy grows older and continues to take from the tree.
What is the main message of The Giving Tree?
The main message of The Giving Tree is the importance of selflessness and the dangers of being selfish. It illustrates what happens when one takes without giving in return, emphasizing the value of gratitude.