The Giver

This is one book that is very upsetting, yet very good at the same time. It concerns a young boy, Jonas, living in a community which is run by extremely rigid rules could with a "thank-you-for-sharing" mentality about some things. Each person has to follow a very strict code of behavior and, ultimately, the career they end up in is determined by others, not themselves.

It's also a world of sameness (think "Lathe of Heaven") and predictability. Behavior is controlled by drugs, upbringing (with it's own version of brainwashing), and murder. It's also a community where love simply doesn't exist.

Jonas is assigned to take over from an individual named The Receiver who will now become The Giver while Jonas becomes the new Receiver. The Giver transmits memories of things that might be pleasant, but also memories of things that are painful. Gradually, through both, Jonas' eyes are opened to the real world that he lives in and just how far people will go to justify not having any problems in the community such as crime or any other form of negative behavior.

In effect, Jonas is living in the world of a cult, for all practical purposes.

The events can be upsetting and I would suggest that parents be ready to discuss the book with their children should they read it. The book even includes some Questions for Discussion to help this.

Also upsetting, perhaps even frightening in parts, it's still an excellent book and well worth reading.


Main Index

Yadult Index