Set in the distant future, Jonas lives in a society that has given up certain freedoms for security reasons. When he is twelve, he's selected for a very revered task – The Receiver Of Society's Memories. Can his society continue to live in a world of sameness and routine? What is the alternative?

Lowry pens a thought-provoking novel that resonates with all ages with "The Giver." Jonas' society embraces sameness for the sake of security, but when he begins to receive the giver's memories, he realizes there's more to life than "going-through-the-motions" to ensure the mistakes of the past aren't repeated. The human race is missing a vital part of its complex existence – the ability to experience emotions – both good and bad. And thus is the dilemma Lowry presents: are memories something to avoid or something to embrace? Can we learn and improve from our memories or is it better to live in a static and dull community for the sake of peace?

Developing critical thinking skills.

How Lowry developed her futuristic world.

The ending. I thought it was too vague.

a bit disgusted, that society would evolve to "release" people so easily. In that regard, the book evoked a lot of emotion from me.

is Lois Lowry. She's won several awards for her writing and books. The Giver was published in 1993 and won a Newbury Award.

Because it's a read that will appeal to middle schoolers that will make them think about what's important to them.

Lowry's writing easily engages the reader. I finished the book in two days. Lowry's characters are interesting. Jonas' discovery about life is eye-opening. Each character supports Jonas' in a very unique way on his journey. "The Giver" is a story that will resonate with readers long after they've finished. I recommend it for ages twelve and up.

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Created Mar 09, 2014 at 7:13pm • Submit your own review...