The Giving Back Tree
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
Long ago, there was a tree who loved a boy. She gave him all she had, until she had no more to give. But what happens to the tree after the boy is gone? So begins the inspiring and heartwarming tale of a young girl who meets the tree and loves her without expectation. Love is a powerful healing force in this tender and magical adventure that reminds us the end is also a new beginning. Beautifully written and illustrated, The Giving Back Tree teaches a simple lesson: we can grow back.
Age
0-12
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the actions of the tree make you feel?
Why do you think the tree kept giving to the boy?
What does this story teach us about kindness and generosity?
Can you think of a time when you shared something important with someone else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones while reading to highlight the emotions in the story, helping your child understand the feelings of the characters.
After reading, connect the story to your child’s experiences by asking them about times they have given or received generously.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite part of the book, which can serve as a starting point for more conversation about the story’s themes.
Discuss the importance of giving without expecting anything in return, a central theme in the book, and relate it to everyday life situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of generosity
Explanation: In 'The Giving Back Tree', the protagonist tree continuously gives its fruits, branches, and trunk to help others, depicting selflessness and the joy of giving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to share their toys, snacks, or help their friends and family, understanding that giving is a rewarding experience that strengthens relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of gratitude
Explanation: Throughout the book, creatures that benefit from the tree's gifts express their thanks, teaching children the value of appreciating and acknowledging help from others.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice saying 'thank you' in daily interactions, fostering an attitude of gratitude towards classmates, teachers, and family members.
Example Lesson: The cycle of giving and receiving
Explanation: As the tree gives to others, it receives care and love in return, particularly in its old age, illustrating the reciprocal nature of kindness.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in community and family activities where help is both given and received, promoting social responsibility and empathy.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Despite losing its fruits, branches, and trunk, the tree remains steadfast and finds new ways to be useful, symbolizing endurance and adaptability.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain positive and find creative solutions during difficult times, whether it’s dealing with a personal challenge or a group conflict.
Example Lesson: The impact of long-term actions
Explanation: The tree’s lifetime of generosity leaves a lasting legacy that benefits many generations, teaching children that good deeds have enduring effects.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to engage in actions that positively affect their environment, like planting trees or helping in community clean-ups, understanding these efforts contribute to a better future.