The Giving Tree
Book description
As recommended by Meghan Markle as the one book she can't wait to share with her child - the timeless fable about the gift of love
Once there was a little tree ... and she loved a little boy.
So begins the classic bestseller, beautifully written and illustrated by the…
Why read it?
4 authors picked The Giving Tree as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
This book makes you think. Is it about greed? Unconditional love? The relationship between the natural world and humans?
Whatever you get from this book it serves as a reminder about how much trees give us but also flags up the importance of kindness (and balance). Do you balance giving with taking? What could you give more of? Your time? Your love? Your money? Your care? Your voice?
If someone is kind to you, always try to pay it forward? Are you balancing how kind you are to others with how kind you are to yourself? Self-care isn't selfish. Self-care…
From Cheryl's list on trees to make you cherish and delight in nature.
The message of this story is that love is so deep that it endures even well past what seemingly is the capacity to give love. This book is a true metaphor for the enduring power of love. No matter how much time passes, the tree gives love freely and unconditionally.
From Elizabeth's list on children's stories that convey profound love.
Like my book, this is a story about two characters who are different and have a creative and unique relationship. Although the tree and the “boy” are different, they share a bond that lasts a lifetime. The enduring devotion and connection that the tree expresses to the “boy” strike at the heart of the meaning of friendship and love. It’s hard to read this book and not feel moved by it.
From Andrew's list on friendship and diversity.
The pure poetry of the story - not the words themselves, which are poetic as well, but the story - always hits me emotionally when I read this book, often evoking tears. In the book, The Giving Tree is completely selfless, giving all the time; even when it is not the best thing to do, and yet she gets nothing in return. The character of the Tree is a poignant view of human existence, elucidating how we are happiest when we give, and how we remain ever hopeful, despite all appearances. The Tree also evokes a warning of the dangers…
From Ari's list on to inspire hope.
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Interested in friendships, trees, and critical thinking?
10,000+ authors have recommended their favorite books and what they love about them. Browse their picks for the best books about friendships, trees, and critical thinking.