The Giver

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lowry, Lois. 1993. The Giver. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 395645662

PLOT SUMMARY
The story if The Giver is told and revealed through the thoughts and experiences of Jonas, the young boy turning 12 years old who has been named The Receiver. Through bizarre dystopia, people living in this community have no decisions to make or other considerations to take into account. The entire little “world” has controlled everything, down to what people may feel, what rules are made and who carries the babies, where the babies are assigned and what life partners, or spouses, each will have. The quirks are consistent throughout the whole book, often understandable, but definitely not logical. In the end, Jonas defies the “rules” and takes baby Gabriel in search of Elsewhere. The reader is left with the query of whether the two actually die or not.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Upon first glance, this story is fascinating, yet begins to fade into simply odd and peculiar as Jonas begins his receiving of memory. Characters are revealed through the interactions with Jonas and are not strongly developed, except for The Giver and Jonas.
As for universal themes, one can expect that for a fantasy novel reader, this will appeal. Yet, the dysfunction spoils the humanness of the relationships.
The style of writing does leave questions which are not answered right away and providing a venue for discussion.

REVIEWS
Booklist starred (Vol. 89, No. 16 (April 15, 1993))
This one makes an especially good introduction to the genre because it doesn't load the dice by presenting the idea of a community structured around safety as totally negative. There's a distinctly appealing comfort in sameness that kids--especially junior high kids--will recognize. Yet the choice is clear. Sameness versus freedom, happiness at the risk of pain. Something to talk about.

Horn Book starred (September, 1993)
In a departure from her well-known and favorably regarded realistic works, Lowry has written a fascinating, thoughtful science-fiction novel. The story takes place in a nameless, utopian community, at an unidentified future time. Although life seems perfect -- there is no hunger, no disease, no pollution, no fear -- the reader becomes uneasily aware that all is not well. The story is skillfully written; the air of disquiet is delicately insinuated; and the theme of balancing the values of freedom and security is beautifully presented.

CONNECTIONS

This story continues to spawn great conversation within our family! I remember when my own daughter read it for the first time and how odd I thought it sounded. Now that I have read the book, I understand her much better, yet, I realize that she is much more factual about this genre of fantasy. I have more emotional responses to this type of literature, so my opinions are stronger in either direction.

The novel could be used to encourage original poetry writing by students.

One could also adapt this as skits and/or reader’s theater. I’m reminded of a Destination Imagination project when I think of this story!