Stories & Art Program Features “The Giving Tree”

This Friday, as part of the Stories & Art education program, the 9/11 Memorial Museum welcomes a special guest to read “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein and to discuss its parallels to the story of 9/11, specifically the story of the Survivor Tree.

Centered on a boy and a tree, the story of “The Giving Tree” shows how strong love can be, even during the darkest times.

Guest reader, Ron Vega, the 9/11 Memorial Senior Director of Design and Construction, was a survivor of 9/11 and a key figure in the recovery and ongoing care for the Survivor Tree.

“This book has many great themes that relate to the story of 9/11 and more broadly to the symbolism of trees in our society,” said Vega. “I have always been a fan of this book and with my background, this is a great way for me to engage with a young audience.”

“The Giving Tree” Stories & Art program is offered on July 17 at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in the Museum’s Education Center. Each participating group will receive a complimentary copy of the book. The program is limited to 30 guests per program and reservations are recommended. Walk-ins are welcome, space permitting.

By Claire Gallo, 9/11 Memorial Communications Intern