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Title: The Giver
Author: Lois Lowry
type of book: YA Fiction
call number: YA/FIC
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This book is strong in character, story, setting.
Summary:
Rules, apologies, and precise language are slavishly believed in. Individuals
are "released" (via euthanasia) from the community when they do not conform to
community standards. Only "precise language" is used. Adult life begins at
12, when childhood is over. Elders make all decisions regarding life assignments,
spousal partners, etc. Jonas finds out he is selected to be the most honored
member of the community - the Receiver of Memory. Jonas' job is to keep the
memories/feelings so people in the community don't have to face reality. Jonas
develops the qualities of the Receiver quickly: Intelligence, Integrity,
Courage, Wisdom, and the CAPACITY TO SEE BEYOND.
The Giver tells Jonas that honor is not the same as power, and unfortunately,
what wisdom and knowledge they both have from memories cannot change the
Sameness. The more memories Jonas receives, the more real and deep feelings he
develops.
Jonas begins to see that the way the community lives is not fair since people
have no personal choice, but he also understands how it would be dangerous for
people to have freedom since they often make the wrong choices. Jonas has some
tough decisions to make in this story, which will not be easy and may not be
good for him.
I would recommend this book!
Why?
This story kept me turning the page to see what would happen next. The
tone is very dark, which is ironic since the community is supposed to be
utopian. The people seem to be content, but they are not really living. The
idea of conformity in society is heavily debated in this novel in conjunction
with the theme that "sameness" is not always the best. The story could be
recommended to science fiction readers as well as general fiction readers since
its style is reminiscent of "what ifs" scenarios such as the future, utopian societies, genetic
engineering, etc. Young readers will quickly identify with Jonas' character.
His strong desire to grow up and do what is right, as well as his inner turmoil
over wanting to have individual and personal choices, is engaging and readers
will want to see Jonas succeed.
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Related links:
Lois Lowry's Web Site
Employee Initials: KS
Review Date: February 2003
Read other reviews by this staff member.
