2.24k reviews for:

The Giving Tree

Shel Silverstein

4.29 AVERAGE

rashi_4444's review

4.0

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It was the shortest book I read. It had so little text. It took me like 30 mins to read the whole book, maybe even less. What can I say about the book? I mean I did not spend a lot of time with the book to develop some connection. I have not much to say for it but yes I did enjoy it.
It had sentimental connection. It was obviously emotional and I felt like hugging my plants. It was short and cute. Definitely recommended! If you like want a break or something really short then it is the best option.

chlokichi's review

5.0

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Shel Silverstein has a gift for capturing the human soul, then putting it in words simple enough for a child to understand.

water_guardian's review

5.0

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this was one of my favorite childhood books

annasaintj's review

2.0

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Rereading this book as an adult has made me rethink it entirely. It is a profoundly sad book, in which a deeply selfish boy grows up to be an even more selfish man who only knows how to take without giving back. I recently came across a writer who “fixed” the ending of The Giving Tree by writing this alternative: The Tree Who Set Healthy Boundaries by Topher Grace. In this version, the tree teaches the boy to stop taking so she can keep giving without losing herself entirely. The original Shel Silverstein version always made me feel a bit uneasy, and now I understand why. It isn’t healthy or good to give without being nourished in return, and the selfish little boy is a completely unsympathetic character who learns and contributes nothing. I like this updated version immensely better than the original. Any child (or adult, for that matter) who is exposed to the original should read T.G.‘s version as a companion. Interesting conversations about healthy boundaries are sure to ensue.

jayss's review

3.0

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I expected something slightly more complex but it's a very quick read, a nice message if somewhat heavy-handed.

iluvu_manu's review

4.0

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And now I'm crying

zoeybirdy's review

5.0

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It was just so adorable and cute. I really couldn't help but like it. If i was younger I think i would have thought the same thing as i said in class when my teacher read it to us today.

mariam5490's review

5.0

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It is the most beautiful book.

taroube's review

3.75

sad fast-paced

jane_inkheart's review

4.25

emotional reflective sad slow-paced