Review By JESSICA ALMY
I’ve heard people cite The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein as an example of environmental children’s literature, but I’m not so sure. Of course, the boy’s connection with the tree, at least at the beginning of the book, is beautiful — but why oh why does she keep taking him back, regardless of how he abuses her?? (I can’t help but think of the kicked dog who returns to her master with her tail wagging between her legs.)
I’ll admit this book does have one good message: Nature is not infinite. Even so, that just doesn’t save this book in my eyes.
Ages 4-8.
Jennifer // Dec 8, 2009 at 12:40 am
I agree, I always found this book depressing as a child for the same reason!
rachael // Jun 27, 2012 at 1:44 am
Imagine if you can,parents raising children with autism respond to the challenge just like the giving tree.