The Giving Tree

One childhood book that vividly sticks out in my mind is The Giving Tree. When I was younger I didn't exactly understand the depth of the story's message but I felt comfort in the relationship that the boy and the tree acquired. However, now that I am older the book has become even more meaningful to me. The tree provides the boy with everything necessary for him to survive and live his life to the fullest. When the boy grows up the tree performs the ultimate act of self sacrifice and allows the boy to cut him down in order to use him as a boat. While throughout the course of his life it may seem as though the boy is very demanding of the tree and acts in a selfish manner. Yet I think it is very heartwarming when the boy returns to the tree after so many years in order to repay the tree for everything she has given the boy.

The relationship between the boy and the tree remind of my own relationship with my mother, and this book reminds me the importance of appreciating the people who care about you. While many may be saddened by the amount of time it took for the boy to finally appreciate his caregiver I think that overall it portrays a good message and can be eye opening to many children, and cause them to experience emotions that they may not have previously encountered. It reminds me of The Boy Who Cried Wolf and while it may portray a harsh reality it represents an important message of self sacrifice and appreciation.