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Summary: Some interesting stuff...
Review: I read this book a few years ago, and have just recently read Fahrenheit 451, a very similar book. Both are about colorless, utopian societies, and in both the hero chooses to go against this society. Thinking is no longer present in either of these simplified worlds - who needs choice, and the problems that go with it? I enjoyed both books thoroughly, and would recommend this book to people of all ages.I would also like to note that the sales rank of this book is 451.
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Summary: The giver
Review: The Giver was a good book because it was so weird. The setting was very diffrent from other books with the common theme.It has some what a unpredictable climax because of the characters feelings during the plot.Also it teaches a life lesson because behind all those words, it teaches that the future is not good to know but,that you have to wait and see.
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Summary: How this has become a classic is beyond me
Review: When I read this book for the Children's Lit class that I teach, I was horrified. Not only is the story ineptly constructed, but it also portrays the blatant manipulation of the child protagonist by the very person who's supposed to train him for his designated job. I had had high hopes for this book when I started reading it, but clearly Lois Lowry needs some instruction in how to create a functional alternate worldview. Her utopian world makes little sense because she fails to explore it in enough depth. I think if the book had been another 100 pages or so, it might have been worth the reading, but as it is, I'm horrified by both the popularity of the novel and by the uncritical manner in which it is approached by teachers and students alike.
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Summary: A below average exploration on human nature/dystopias
Review: I've read this book twice now, about three years apart. I didn't care for it then, and I don't care for it now. Although a somewhat interesting general plot, I never felt the urge to "find out what happened next." I don't know why this book is hailed as one of the greatest books ever written, a modern classic. The characters seemed dull and one-dimesional. The plot, although unique in some ways, just seemed mashed together from several different stories written before. I do understand this is a children's book, though I do not see what everybody sees in this below average exploration in dystopias and human nature. For books about dystopias and human nature, I suggest reading more interesting novels such as 1984, Brave New World, A Clockwork Orange, the Dune Chronicles, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Bonfire of the Vanities, Mother Night, etc. For some good short stories, read Harrison Bergeron, Those Who Walk Away From Omelas, The Veldt, and others. Rating - 2 stars - You can pass this one up.
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Summary: Could Not Put Down
Review: I remember our teacher assigned this book in 7th grade english class, with only a week remaining in the school year, not nearly enough time to read a novel in a classroom setting. Nonetheless we began the first chapter, and as the rest of the class disregarded the assignment I not only read the first chapter, but the entire novel, in two nights. I simply could not put it down, and read it out of pure joy, not as an assignment. I fully intend on handing this novel down to my children when they are a similar age. It is written wonderfully and is amazingly thought provoking. At a time in life when growing up is tough, it makes you realize all the beauty in the world and all that you have to be happy for. Even as an adult these virtues can be drawn from the text.
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Summary: excellent book
Review: This book was an unexpected delight. Most readers will find that this book is well written and, if your imagination is still working, a book for people of all ages. There were some parts of the book that tried too hard to bridge reality and fantasy but they were still well done. The book also hit on some of the very toughest problems within our own society. Bravo!
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Summary: Not just for "Young Adults"
Review: This is one of the best books I've ever read. I love it when "Young Adult" authors can capture any reader by using ageless themes, descriptive writing, and strong characters. Rowling does this well, and now I've discovered Lowry. In The Giver, she explores the pain and pleasure of growing up, expressing TRUE feelings, LIVING life, and the special bond of family. These themes make it perfect for older children around 11 or 12. The protagonist's age is also in this range. However, Lowry speaks to any age reader in this powerful scenario of a future society bereft of choice, variety, and authentic emotions. My wheels were turning all throughout the book as Lowry only gives a bit of information at a time about the Community in which the characters live. But the end of the book really got me thinking and wanting to talk with others who have read it. In my opinion, THAT is the mark of a great book.
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Summary: Best Book Ever!
Review: This is one of my favorite books! I think that it really does open up your mind and make you think about how lucky we are even thought Jonus and his family live in a so called "perfect world." I don't think that this book is inappropriate at all. Usually I don't like sci-fi books but this is one of my favorite books! Don't listen to the people that said it was bad because there are way more people that loved this book. Take my advice and read it!!!
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Summary: The Giver is a fabulous book!
Review: The Giver is one of the best books I have ever read! It has a very good plot and a lot of suspence. Lois Lowry, the author, did a great job!
The Giver is about a boy named Jonas who lives in a "perfect" society. They have no emotions and never have to worry about being able to survive. The citizens have never had to experience pain, fear, or even love. Their lives are controlled and they can not even chose their spouses and jobs.
When Jonas turns twelve he is selected for an important job. With this job he has to experience memories and emotions of the past. He learns a lot from these and wants everyone to experience these feelings.
Finally, Jonas can't take it. He wants to be free of this colorless world he lives in. He wants to be part of a society where he is not "controlled". Jonas goes on a very dangerous mission benefiting him and his fellow citizens. Will he survive?
The Giver is especially a good read because it has no specific ending. You get to use your imagination and the facts you have been given to create your own ending. The Giver is definetly one of Lois Lowry's best books ever! All junior high student's should read this book.
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Summary: All I Can Say is WOW!
Review: WOW! Part of the (...) reading curriculum is to read THE GIVER. At first, I though it would be really stupid and boring. Our teacher said to start reading it and stop around the second chapter. I did something very naughty. I kept on reading. I went home and finished the book. I feel very guilty for doing that, but hey, it is a really good book and it's not my fault i can't put it down!! This book is about a boy naped Jonas. He lives in a world where there are rules for everything. There is no such thing as love. Everything is the same. People don't see colors. They don't even know what SNOW is!! When the Ceremony of Twelve takes place, he is selected to become the Receiver for Memories. He receives memories from the former receiver, The Giver. Jonas holds the memories of the pain and pleasure of life. The secrets that no one but him and The Giver know. I found sadness in this book. I found the pleasure in this book. I felt the pain from this book. I could not put this book down. I recommend it to you. Read it!!!!!!!
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