The Giving Tree
on Goodreads (1,160,552)
What’s inside...
The Giving Tree is a tale about a relationship between a young boy and a tree in a forest. The tree always provides the boy with what he wants: branches on which to swing, shade in which to sit, apples to eat, branches with which to build a home. As the boy grows older, his demands become more self-serving, and the tree happily obliges until she is nothing more than a stump. The book addresses themes of giving and love with a sadness permeating the story.
Character compass
Discussion points
How did the relationship between the boy and the tree change throughout the story?
What do you think the tree felt when it gave its apples/branches/trunk to the boy?
Why do you think the tree kept giving to the boy, even when it had little left to give?
How do you feel about the way the boy treated the tree?
Can you think of a time when you’ve shared something important with someone else? How did that make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the emotions of both the boy and the tree by asking them to draw facial expressions for each character at different points in the story.
Discuss the concept of selflessness by asking your child how they feel when they share with others, and relate these feelings back to the tree’s actions in the story.
Use real-life examples of giving and sharing, and compare those to the actions of the tree, to make the theme more relatable and understandable for your child.
After reading, ask your child to summarize the story from the tree’s perspective, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the narrative and its implications.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Selflessness
Explanation: The tree continuously gives to the boy without expecting anything in return, showcasing pure selflessness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of giving without expecting rewards, enhancing their relationship with friends and family.
Example Lesson: The consequences of selfishness
Explanation: The boy's consistent taking from the tree without giving anything in return ultimately leads to the tree's depletion, illustrating the negative impact of selfishness.
Real-World Application: Children can reflect on the importance of reciprocal relationships and the negative effects of taking without giving back.
Example Lesson: Happiness and materialism
Explanation: As the boy ages, his pursuit of happiness through materialistic gains proves to be unfulfilling.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to find joy in relationships and experiences rather than in material possessions.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: The tree's unwavering generosity toward the boy teaches the value of being grateful for what one has in life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express gratitude towards parents, teachers, and peers, fostering an attitude of appreciation.
Example Lesson: The nature of unconditional love
Explanation: Despite the boy's selfish actions, the tree continues to love him unconditionally, symbolizing a parent's unwavering love.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and recognize the unconditional love they receive from their caregivers and to strive to reciprocate it.