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A review by ricksilva
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
A tree loves a little boy, and only wants the boy's companionship and his happiness. As the boy grows older and no longer wants to play and rest by the tree, the tree gives more and more of herself.
This book, which is beautifully presented and illustrated, can be looked on as a study in selflessness, or it can be seen in a darker interpretation as the story of an abusive relationship. And in some sense, both interpretations are valid. The result is something that feels a bit "off", as it seems to be trying hard to be a feel-good, story, but then underneath, maybe it isn't that at all. The ambiguity ended up losing me a little bit, although the ambiguity is certainly part of the point.
This book, which is beautifully presented and illustrated, can be looked on as a study in selflessness, or it can be seen in a darker interpretation as the story of an abusive relationship. And in some sense, both interpretations are valid. The result is something that feels a bit "off", as it seems to be trying hard to be a feel-good, story, but then underneath, maybe it isn't that at all. The ambiguity ended up losing me a little bit, although the ambiguity is certainly part of the point.
Content Warnings
Minor: Emotional abuse