As a parent and teacher, I use Shil Silverstein's The Giving Tree to teach the concept of gratitude(Click Here and Here and Here) and the consequences of selfishness. I read, with great interest, a recent post at The Misfortune Of Knowing entitled "Teaching Children About Uncomfortable Truths (a Defense of Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree)".
It was one of those posts that made me go Hummm. First, let me say, I share the sentiments of the blogger, but she also offers up some interesting opposition by other readers of The Giving Tree that I had not expected. It always amazes me that the same piece of literature can give such varied interpretations. As for me, my use of The Giving Tree will remain the same, but when I teach the "Gratitude Lesson" again next year, I will also use this post to analyze the students' reaction to an opposing theme versus the more accepted view point.
Take a peek at The Misfortune Of Knowing post and let us know how you feel, and if you have a moment check out my sister blog, The Writing Whisperer, which I use to inspire/teach writing to my English students.
Happy Reading☮
The Things You Can Read!
Believe In Truth, Beauty, Freedom, Love, and the Power of Books!
Believe In Truth, Beauty, Freedom, Love, and the Power of Books!
