Old Tired Giving Tree
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
The Old Tired Giving Tree by Janie S Gill tells the tale of a tree who has devoted its life to giving to others and is now feeling depleted and worn out. As the tree embarks on a journey of self-discovery, it learns to find peace within its own limitations, realizing the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. This heartwarming story is beautifully illustrated and poetically narrated, conveying a powerful message that resonates with both children and adults about the necessity of maintaining personal well-being to lead a fulfilling life. Additionally, the book supports phonemic awareness and phonics instruction, builds fluency and vocabulary, and develops text comprehension skills.
Age
8-10
Length
23 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the tree represents in the story?
How do you think the boy felt each time he came back to visit the tree?
Why do you think the tree kept giving to the boy, even when it had very little left?
What does the relationship between the tree and the boy teach us about caring and generosity?
If you were the tree, what would you have done differently in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and events in the story.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings and discuss the possible outcomes.
Relate the theme of giving to personal experiences where they have shared with others.
Highlight the emotions shown in the book and ask your child how they would feel in similar situations.
Discuss the importance of both giving and receiving, and how both aspects are valuable in relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of generosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the Giving Tree provides the boy with everything he needs, from apples to branches and even its trunk, showcasing an unwavering spirit of giving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their possessions and time with their friends and family, understanding that generosity can bring joy to others.
Example Lesson: The impact of selflessness
Explanation: The Giving Tree never hesitates to help the boy, symbolizing the virtue of selflessness.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice putting others' needs before their own, such as sharing a favorite toy or helping a sibling with a task, to foster a caring community.
Example Lesson: Understanding the stages of life
Explanation: The story follows the boy from youth to old age, highlighting the different needs and challenges at each stage of life.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy for people of various ages and comprehend that everyone goes through different phases with diverse needs.
Example Lesson: The consequences of taking without giving
Explanation: As the boy continues to take from the tree without reciprocation, the tree becomes just a stump, illustrating the consequences of one-sided relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of mutual respect and the importance of maintaining balance in relationships, ensuring that they both give and receive.
Example Lesson: Value and appreciation of nature
Explanation: The Giving Tree's constant support to the boy demonstrates the nurturing aspect of nature and the endless benefits it offers.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to respect and protect their natural environment, understanding that nature is a vital support system for human life.