The Giver - Lois Lowry

“They were satisfied with their lives which had none of the vibrance his own was taking on. And he was angry at himself, that he could not change that for them.”

The Giver, Lois Lowry

 

 

Oh, oh, oh, this book is good! It's the kind of book that you read when cuddled up with a cup of coffee, that is, if you drink coffee. Regardless, this book is superb. It's going to stand the test of time.

 

I read this book for a book study in school. The book study killed me. I had to read about 3 three chapters, then answer questions, then read more. If it wasn't for the book study it would've been done in maybe two days. It was that good. I always wanted to read it and I stayed over-time in class to read it. I would've missed the bus, but hey, I'm homeschooled.

 

This is one of those books that has a deeper meaning than simply a good story. It has impact, emotion and such interesting thoughts that I still think about the book. It's such a creative book, too. I have no idea how Lois Lowry came up with the ideas in here, but they were so unpredictable, yet followed the story. There was some good planning on her part.

 

Jonas's world is perfect. He feels no pain, no fear or worry. Everything is planned out for him. Everything is decided for him, how he spends the day, his career, and wife. That all changes, however, when Jonas gets his career as Receiver, the next Giver. He is trained by The Giver who transmits memories to him every training session. The memories are pleasant at first, some of sunshine, color and sliding. Then, the memories become painful. There are many memories, all from the past. Some of sunburns, wars, and other things that Jonas has never experienced. The Giver is needed to hold the painful memories, so the other citizens can live in peace.

 

The plot is so good, it shows us not only a wonderful story, but the importance of sharing pain. It was a book with meaning. I don't really know how else to describe it. It was just... memorable. I think that would be the best word. I loved it.

 

The book is dedicated to children "to whom we entrust the future" It's a perfect reminder that we shouldn't try to create the perfect society, and that if we do share painful memories, it will be better for us.