September 2010 Guest Editor Simon Bartram: 'The Giving Tree' is a simple and beautiful book. It tells the tale of the long relationship between a boy and a tree. In the beginning the boy's youthful exuberance is matched by the luscious tree that offers itself up as a wonderful playground, perfect for climbing, swinging and exploring. As the boy grows up however, the tree begins to help him in other ways and their lives remain entwined until time catches up with both of them. This is a charming tale about unconditional friendship and growing old. Shel Silverstein's simple black and white illustrations tell the story perfectly.
