TL;DR
In Lois Lowry's 'The Giver,' Jonas uncovers the dark truths about his seemingly utopian society after being chosen as the Receiver of Memories.
What is The Giver about
'The Giver' by Lois Lowry is a dystopian novel that follows Jonas, a 12-year-old boy who is selected to be the community's next Receiver of Memories. Through his training, he learns about emotions, color, and the complexities of human experience—elements absent from his regulated society. As he uncovers harsh realities, Jonas must make critical decisions about his future and the community's.
The Giver 5 Key Takeaways
Jonas is assigned as the Receiver of Memories.
During the Ceremony of Twelve, Jonas is given the special role of Receiver of Memories, a position that isolates him but opens his eyes to the community's hidden past.
The training begins with The Giver.
Jonas starts receiving memories from an elderly man known as The Giver. These memories introduce him to concepts like pain, love, and color, which are absent in his uniform society.
Jonas discovers the truth about 'release.'
As his training progresses, Jonas learns that 'release' means euthanasia. This revelation shocks him and makes him question the morality of his society.
Jonas plans an escape.
Disturbed by his discoveries, Jonas decides to escape the community to find 'Elsewhere,' a place where he hopes to find freedom and a more genuine existence.
Jonas and Gabriel flee.
Taking a newborn named Gabriel, who is scheduled for release, Jonas escapes, facing unknown dangers in search of a better life.
Top The Giver Quotes
- 'The worst part of holding the memories is not the pain. It's the loneliness of it. Memories need to be shared.'
- 'We gained control of many things. But we had to let go of others.'
Who should read The Giver?
This book is ideal for young readers aged 12 and up, as well as adults interested in thought-provoking dystopian literature. It offers deep insights into themes of memory, freedom, and societal control.
The Giver Best Reviews
- 'A powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges our perceptions of freedom and control.' - The New York Times
- 'Lowry's vision of a disquietingly conformist future is punctuated by moments of transcendent beauty.' - Publishers Weekly
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The Giver FAQs
Is 'The Giver' based on a true story?
No, 'The Giver' is not based on a true story. However, it was inspired by Lowry's personal experiences, particularly her father's memory loss.
Is 'The Giver' a book for kids?
Yes, 'The Giver' is suitable for readers aged 12 and up. It is frequently taught in middle school curricula.
What grade level is 'The Giver'?
'The Giver' has a Lexile measure of 760L and is often taught in grades 6 to 8.
How old is Jonas in 'The Giver'?
Jonas is 12 years old at the beginning of the novel.