The Giver

The Giver

Lois Lowry

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         The Giver is one of my all-time favorite books. And for none of the typical reasons. It doesn’t have a great, passionate love story. It doesn’t have action scenes or heroic powers. But this story leaves a mark on anyone who reads it. It makes you think. At least it really made me think when I first read it around the age of eleven.

            Jonas is eleven going on twelve, content with his life in the Community. He is approaching the age at which he will be assigned his job in the Community. In the Community everyone works, doing the job they were given. No one is ever hungry, pain is very rare and quickly relieved, and no one is singled out for differences because there are practically none, they all live in sameness. When Jonas is assigned the job of Receiver, the most honored position in the Community, he doesn’t know quite what he is in for, only that he is given this honor because he can see beyond. He works with the current Receiver to take over the job, but slowly begins to see that his once thought perfect community has more flaws than anyone is willing to admit to. But Jonas has to wonder what he, just one person, even with a gift can do to make a change reveal the truth.

            I know the description is a bit confusing and ambiguous, but I refuse to give anything away to those who have not read this absolutely amazing story. It’s a short read, and even though the narrative is from a 12 year old boy, I would recommend this to anyone. I have reread mine so many times the spine is tearing.  Lois Lowry did a wonderful job creating a realistic society and characters. Her sequel to this, Gathering Blue is another I would highly recommend, and will definitely be reviewing soon! Five Pearls for Mrs. Lowry!

XOXO

Kenna-Lee