The Giver by Lois Lowery book review

Blurb: Life in the community where Jonas lives is idyllic. Designated birthmothers produce newchildren, who are assigned to appropriate family units: one male, one female, to each. Citizens are assigned their partners and their jobs. No one thinks to ask questions. Everyone obeys. The community is a precisely choreographed world without conflict, inequality, divorce, unemployment, injustice…or choice.

Everyone is the same.

Except Jonas.

At the Ceremony of Twelve, the community’s twelve-year-olds eagerly accept their predetermined Life Assignments. But Jonas is chosen for something special. He begins instruction in his life’s work with a mysterious old man known only as The Giver. Gradually Jonas learns that power lies in feelings. But when his own power is put to the test- when he must try to save someone he loves- he may not be ready. Is it too soon? Or too late?

I’m pretty sure I read this in either elementary or middle school. However, I didn’t remember anything about it. So this was pretty much like a first read for me. I’m so glad it was, because I really enjoyed this. It was nice and light, especially after having read a chunky fantasy and a horror book before it.

I could really connect with Jonas. I feel like all of the thoughts and feelings he had are ones that I would definitely have. Jonas, Gabe, and The Giver were my favorite characters. They all have very different characteristics that just drew me to them. This was just a really nice easy read that I can definitely see myself rereading it again and again. I gave it 4 stars.