The Fir Tree

Written by Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Nancy Ekholm Burkert

Grade:

2-5

ISBN-13:

Publisher:

Harper & Row (1970)

This timeless tale by Hans Christian Andersen shares the life of a fir tree, from its origination and growth in a beautiful forest, to its eventual adornment at Christmas and unexpected fate. Growing in an idyllic setting, surrounded by the beauties of nature, the fir tree is unhappy and impatient to grow tall and great. Angered by its small size, the fir tree ignores the surrounding beauty of the sunshine, birds and clouds. Although urged to rejoice in its youth and beauty, the tree is always longing for more fulfillment and remains dissatisfied as it continues to grow year after year. When it is eventually cut and beautifully adorned as a Christmas tree, the tree still cannot rest in the joy that surrounds it but can only think of possible future glory. It is only after being left in a dark attack and telling mice of its past that the tree finally begins to realize the good it has experienced. Finally, as the tree is burned it reflects its life of missed happiness and squandered opportunities for joy. Andersen leaves us with a poignant reminder to not only embrace simple joys that surround us each day, but more importantly, to foster a sense of gratitude for every blessing experienced.