Comments on: Top 100 Picture Books #85: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

By: Meredith

Meredith — Tue, 22 May 2012 21:06:49 +0000

I think the Sassy Gay Friend really sums up my feelings about this book. It’s distressing.

By: Sondy

Sondy — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:18:23 +0000

Ed and Genevieve,

The sad part is that I would have willingly given so much. Had to learn that there comes a time when you say, “No. I won’t stand for that. No, there are laws protecting me, and I will invoke them.” It did dawn on me that The Giving Tree was an awfully good metaphor for what could have happened…. A very sad story, really.

By: Genevieve

Genevieve — Mon, 21 May 2012 03:10:10 +0000

Sondy, a perfect way to christen your fireplace. I’m glad you have your branches and apples, and mostly that you are happy.

By: Ed Spicer

Ed Spicer — Sat, 19 May 2012 20:33:28 +0000

Sondy,

Loved your post! Count me as a Giver hater (but love LOVE many of his poems).

By: Sondy

Sondy — Sat, 19 May 2012 18:46:44 +0000

Once upon a time, I loved The Giving Tree. I gave it to my boyfriend, and wrote the inscription, “May you never grow up.” Dear Reader, he married me. Years later, he had a second adolescence and tried to take all my branches and my apples and sail far away, and I was not happy.

When I moved into my latest home, now divorced, I broke in the new fireplace with a ceremonial burning of The Giving Tree.

I am happy.

By: Matt Forrest

Matt Forrest — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:36:38 +0000

I’ve always loved “The Giving Tree.” Intentional or not, it is a touching commentary on maternal nature, and is a more realistic reflection of our attitudes toward love and responsibility than many prefer to believe. At a recent NESCBWI conference, I had a chance to debate its merits with a fellow attendee who dislikes it – and while I don’t think either of us changed the others’ minds, I certainly could understand her point of view, and I hope she was able to glimpse mine.

By: Elizabeth Bird

Elizabeth Bird — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:53:23 +0000

Should I spoil it? Aw, why not. Have no fears, Harold. Once again Love You Forever didn’t make the cut. Not to say it didn’t get any votes, mind you, but not enough. I will stay mum on the subject of Rainbow Fish, though . . .

By: Harold Underdown

Harold Underdown — Fri, 18 May 2012 15:45:29 +0000

You can put me in the loathe camp.

I’m looking forward to seeing where “Love You Forever” ranks in this list…