The Giving Tree
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The giving tree
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message 51:
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Tyler
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Feb 20, 2012 05:17PM

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The boy is a narcissist. The tree is co-dependent.
Is there a lesson in this book? Yes, but the book is written for an age level which isn't ready to understand/appreciate that lesson. And the lesson is presented so subtly that the book comes off as a bit disturbing.


http://liftingtheveil.proboards.com/i...

Yes, if you look at this as an equal friendship, then this could be an example of a bad relationship, but I don't think that's what the author intended. I think the giving tree represents a parent / child relationship (as well as the relationship between God & his children). It kind of is a horrible relationship. We take and take from them & what do we give? But it is also an amazing relationship. All that a parent or God asks of their child in return is that we love them & follow what they teach us. That is true love. Loving & sacrificing without asking anything in return. It is heart-breakingly beautiful. It is overwhelming when you realize that someone loves you like that.
What is horrible about the Rainbow Fish? He learned that having friends and sharing with them is better than being vain and alone. It's a great story!


I agree ..... I read this book to my kids and they dried their eyes out.



ya my mother does take care of me still and i and i am very happy for my self because there will be ups and downs so yaaaaaaaa!

Ickle me pickle me tickle too
went for a ride in a flying shoe
Ickle was captain, pickle was crew and
tickle serve coffee with mulligan stew
Message of sharing and helpfulness!

Neither the boy nor the tree are solid role models for children. I don't want my children to be "Giving Trees." I certainly don't want them to grow up to be exploiters like the boy.
I wonder why this book has been so exalted.


Deborah, is it a choice or an example of extremes that illustrate compromise... Please don't be so literal Jason, it's there to make you think.

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