The Giving Tree

by Shel Silverstein

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The Giving Tree is written by one of the most beloved children's writers of the 20th century. It is labeled on the cover flap as a book for "all ages". Shel Silverstein not only writes but illustrates all his books. The beginning of the book is good for children just learning, but the end of the story has a lot of words on each page.

The Giving Tree is about the relationship between a growing boy and a tree. At each stage of the boy's life the tree offers him something of great value, and usually of a large sacrifice to the tree. It is a sensitive story that touches the heart of readers of all ages.

Shel Silverstein's drawings, like his stories, are tender and meaningful. The art work is done in black and white without any shading. The tree has a grace about it, with sweeping branches and shedding leaves. There are some creative pages, one of which is the legs of a young man and young woman sitting against the tree (the rest of the bodies are hidden behind the tree).

This is a contemplative book. It is one the those books that gives children the opportunity to learn about the world without personal experience. It is an appealing story that teaches kids about sacrifice and love.

This book is well worth owning.