An intriguing book. Perceived in one way by children, who see warmth and security in the magnanimous giving nature of the tree, and another way by adults, who intuit the melancholy and loss in the tree’s endless gifts — punctuated almost painfully by the style of the illustrations. Adults will also pick up on the theme of the ravages of time and aging which will elude children. This work could be interpreted as commentary on the parent-child bond, or really any give and take relationship. Reminds us of the paintings with hidden images only to be seen by those adept enough. When pieces of art hold timeless truths, people respond, and this book has many millions of readers.