The Giver

Oh, what can I say about The Giver by Lois Lowry? Or, better yet, where shall I start?

The Giver is a dystopian novel about a utopian society. But isn’t that always the way with utopian societies? Something goes awry and we realize utopia here on Earth is impossible.

The story revolves around Jonas, a young boy who finds himself growing up in a society where there is no pain, discomfort, or sorrow. At the age of twelve, Jonas is given a great honor and chosen for the job of Giver. But it is what he receives that shapes his destiny.

The Giver is a very thought provoking book. It has wonderfully complex ideas which naturally lead readers to analyze our society, our ideas and our ideals. It is also one of the few books for young readers that has made me cry. But please don’t hold that against me until you have read and experienced it for yourself. I am fascinated with dystopia and long for utopia…