The Giver by Lois Lowry focuses on 11-year-old Jonas who lives in a “Utopian” society where everyone follows strict rules in order maintain their society. Everyone in this society is given a job or “life assignment” by the elders and is expected to take orders and do the job. They are given their jobs at a ceremony after they turn 12 years old. When Jonas turns 12 he is invited to the ceremony where it is revealed to Jonas what his “life assignment” is: the Receiver of Memory. He is confused at first about his assignment but eventually starts working with the current Receiver, an old man, who is referred to as “The Giver”. Through working with the Giver, Jonas slowly starts to realize that his Utopian society is not what it actually seems. His world starts to collapse right in front of him as he learns more and more about the reality of his situation. Slowly the Giver reveals many dark secrets behind society and which causes Jonas to have many realizations.

Overall, this book is truly an amazing novel. It is full of suspense and mystery which really sets the reader on edge. You are able to clearly see Jonas’ life through his eyes and how he discovers secrets about his society. This novel also helps the reader better understand the theme of individuality and its importance. I would recommend this book to those 12 and up.

Review by: Jasmine M.

Jasmine is a virtual volunteer at Sylmar Branch Library. She is an 11th grader at Sylmar Charter High School.

—Dana Eklund, Sylmar Branch Library