The Giving Tree

Last updated Wednesday, March 31, 2004

Author: Shel Silverstein
Illustrator: Shel Silverstein
Date of Publication: 1964
ISBN: 0060256656
Grade Level: 4th
Date(s) Used: April 2004

Synopsis: Every day the boy would come to the tree to eat her apples, swing from her branches, or slide down her trunk ... and the tree was happy. But as the boy grew older he began to want more from the tree, and the tree gave and gave and gave.

Tips for reading the book: This book emphasizes the importance of gift giving and the benefits gained by both the giver and the receiver of a gift.  It is important to try to focus on things other than material gifts when discussing this book.  A brief picture walk before reading and a discussion afterward will help you make the most of your time.

Discussion topics:

• How does it feel to receive a gift? How does it feel to give a gift?
• What kind of gifts can you give if you don’t have any money to spend?
• What is a “giving tree” ­what can trees give us? What can we give trees?
• Do you have something like the Giving Tree in your life? What do you give it? What does it give you?

Craft ideas:

• Make a paper tree with branches, and on each branch, write down what you would like to give each family member.
• Make and decorate a thank you card to the Giving Tree.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don’t have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!