The New York Times called it, "powerful and provocative." I call it the first book that called me to civil action. Lois Lowry's "The Giver" is the story of a boy acting out again a society of black-and-white Sameness.
Here's the Powell's Books synopsis:
Jonas's world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear of pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the community. When Jonas turns 12 he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Now, it is time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.Lois Lowry's novel has frequently been challenged (or banned from elementary schools) due to its controversial topics–euthanasia, suicide, the danger children are put in as an effort to keep them "safe." This is part of what makes me so sad about the book.
I was lucky enough to go to an elementary school that celebrated the book for the beautiful writing & storytelling that it is. It was even one of the stories I read for my sixth grade story bowl (explained here). And it changed me. I was trusted with this story as a child, trusted to have the ability to look at it critically–What is at stake in this society? What are we sacrificing? What must I say or do to maintain the freedoms I have in my own society?
I have many friends that say their love of reading or ideas about what books can be were shaped by reading "The Giver," & I hope that as the book is read through generation, the controversy fades. It's amazing what children can handle, analyze & generate ideas about when we give them the opportunity.
I also just discovered that "The Giver" is the first of a trilogy. If you want more of Jonas's world, check out "Gathering Blue" & "Messenger".
What books make you sad? Do you read them multiple times... or was once enough?
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