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Lois Lowry's novel "The Giver" is an artfully crafted, controversial story about life not always being what it seems. Using subtle literary devices, Lowry introduces the reader to a group of characters- the advisors- who establish "security" within a utopian society. The story arc shows how a powerful few try to protect- manipulate?- people from the risks of making wrong decisions in life through a closely-guarded social structure. Jonas, the main character, resides in a world where war, disease, and suffering have all been eradicated. His Community strives for "sameness"- a state in which everyone and everything are the same and equal. To help the Community operate as a cohesive unit, each member is assigned a position within society which they mechanically accept. When Jonas finally turns twelve, the Community selects him to be the new "Receiver of Memories." While receiving the memories from the eponymous Giver, Jonas recognizes a different, better way of life and realizes what he and the Community have missed. He decides that something must be done to change their current perceptions through enlightenment of the community. Although "The Giver" is a Newbery Award Winner, it has seen its share of challenges. Euthanasia, infanticide, and suicide have been considered inappropriate themes for children by some people. Other educators believe that the material is thought-provoking. Ironically, those who have tried to ban "The Giver" have only validated the notion that certain portions of society are suppressive and stifling when considering new ideas. Lowry presents a powerfully provocative tale, keeping her readers in suspense, while touching their minds. "The Giver" is a worthwhile read for free-thinkers, libertarians, and serves, in many ways, as a parable of our times. While the ending is less than satisfying, "The Giver" is nevertheless a book well worth your time.Read full review
Wow, simply an amazing book. In a world of sameness there are no feelings, no wars, no colors... The future is told by Lois Lowry in this great book and there's only 2 people who know how the world really was. Upon turning 12, Jonas has been selected to be the new Receiver... The most honored role in the society. Jonas struggles through his training and wishes he could alter the minds of his fellow society members, he wants to show them that there world now is an ignorant one. An adventure lies within the text and will take you on a journey from beginning to end.
Love? Hate? Life? Death? All great themes that are found in The Giver. We used it in our book club and found that most of us loved it and hated it at the same time. It causes feelings of sadness and happiness all within a moments notice. The end will leave you thinking. It caused me to appreciate the freedoms I have and the senses I enjoy. So if you aren't up for a questionable ending, don't pick this one. But if you are curious what life could be like in the near future, then get this book now!
Thought-provoking novel. Themes of utopia, freedom, security, choice. I’m using this as a book study with a group of mostly young adults. Similar to Brave New World, 1984, Fahrenheit 451, but with an elementary/middle school reading level. There is also a movie version, but there are some major differences between the novel and the movie.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is the first in a loosely formed series by Lois Lowry. This book chronicles the life of Jonas, who lives in a future time and place. Each child in the society has a special purpose and is assigned a job during a formal adulthood ceremony. As the Receiver of Memories, Jonas is required to bear the burdens of the society as a whole, which proves to be quite difficult. Gathering Blue, the second book in the series, deals with another society living during Jonas' time. The third book, Messenger, ties the two books together. If you had any questions after reading The Giver, Messenger will resolve them. Kids love it, and I love teaching with it. It is well-written and thought-provoking.
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