The Chronic Consumer

When I was in grade school, my two favorite books were Shel Silverstein’s Where the Sidewalk Ends and A Light in the Attic. I used to read those poems over and over again, never tiring of the whimsical rhymes and fanciful illustrations. I already have those two books for my son, and figured I’d give other Silverstein works a try. I therefore purchased The Giving Tree (without knowing the story or having read it myself) based on the mostly favorable Amazon.com reviews.

The Giving Tree is the story of a friendship between a boy and a tree. The tree provides the boy with everything he needs (apples, a place to climb and play, shade, etc.), and this continues throughout the boy’s life. As the boy gets older, his demands on the tree become more substantial; yet the tree keeps giving — without getting anything in return. The tree is happy so long as the boy is happy.

Finally, there’s nothing left of the once-glorious apple tree except a tiny little stump. And still the boy, who has now become an old man, asks something of it. The tree willingly complies, and is once again happy that he could give something to his friend.

I guess there are many different interpretations one could have of this story. For example, many readers consider it a beautiful tale of generosity and unconditional love/friendship. Others may consider it a dire display of exploitation and selfishness on the boy’s part. I took this latter view, and therefore don’t think this is a book I’ll be reading to my son after all. (Moreover, there’s quite a menacing picture of Silverstein on the back cover that I think would likely give my kid nightmares if he saw it.)

I must say that I’ve been disappointed with my last two children’s book purchases from Amazon.com (this one and Love You Forever). I bought both of those because of the glowing reviews, but ended up not liking either of them. I guess my experience just reinforces the notion that reading choices are highly personal and shouldn’t be influenced too much by what others think.

If you’re considering buying The Giving Tree for your child (while it is advertised as a children’s book, the recommended age is stated as being 10+), I suggest giving it a quick read at the store first. Then you can make a more informed decision of its suitability.

*The cover price of this book is a relatively steep $16.99 ($11.55 at Amazon.com).