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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
This is a great book. I read it in 6th grade and saw it recently on a list of recommended reads so I ordered it. It took me about 3 days to read it and it was even better than I remembered. If you're into alternate futures and things of that nature and question what the world is like without choices, this is one book I would recommend. Another I would also recommend is A Wrinkle in Time. I read a LOT of books growing up and I'm seeing them from time to time now and ordering them. I just started my absolute favrite as a child today, Mandy by Julie Edwards (the lady who played Mary Poppins and starred in The Sound of Music). Anyway, The Giver is a great book but I wish the ending went into more detail.
I first read this book when I was young and since then have read it many times. This book skillfully walks you through a future Earth in the eyes of a young teenager. The plot is strong and not only tells a great story, but also helps people understand appreciation and freedom. Lois Lowry paints pictures with his words making the book easy to comprehend and fun to read. The main character is well understood and in my opinion the entire book is well written. I highly suggest this book!
I read this myself and my 14 year old son also read it. It kept our attention and was a nice easy, interesting book.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I bought this so that I could help my grandson with his school work. He hates reading and makes up the answers, so I bought this and read it so I could make sure that he was answering the questions correctly.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
a good read especially when you feel the need to analyze and stretch your imagination. excellent for people who have the tendency to see life differently and distinctively. the author manages to twist reality and fiction into a single entity that readers are drawn into this other world.
purchased the book for someone because of its effect on me. ideal life is explored clinically not emotionally, you gain something and you lose other things. mind stimulating and makes for great conversations ! Exploring questions of life and how various options are there but not sustainable in the reality. Great philosophical insights. If life is mundane, affect less, and predictable, then you will find deeper value of life as life.
Ordered from thrift books several times and EVERYTHING has always arrived as promised and on time! Thanks so much!!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
A+
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned