The Giver

By Lois Lowry

WOW...I had no idea that I would like this book so much. I did not read this book in high school, but had heard of it. I was very confused at the beginning and did not know whether to think the book was either set in the future or in some socialist community in history. I was very curious when Jonas was talking about being afraid of a plane overhead. I was amused by how they classified children and people's jobs. I also found it interesting how his father took the role of what we could call a nurse in our society and his mother was a judge. At times I felt like I was reading a different language or reading about a different time period. Everything was very set, rigid, and very controlled. I would not have liked to live like they were, and am glad that Jonas stood up for what he believed in, I like to think that I would have done the same. I liked how the book allowed for many different interpretations. For instance, the ending I felt like could go either way. I viewed the book as a glass half full, and believe that Jonas and Gabriel did in fact find "Elsewhere" and lived on to lead happier, more exciting lives. Overall, I would definitely love to use this book in my classroom if I teach upper elementary. It was not what I expected at all but I am glad I read it!