The Giver (Giver Quartet, Book 1)
#1 in The Giver Series
on Goodreads (2,677)
What’s inside...
Celebrate Lois Lowry's Newbery Medal-winning classic story of a young boy discovering the dark secrets behind his seemingly ideal world in this 25th Anniversary Edition of The Giver. Includes a new afterword from Lois Lowry, as well as her Newbery acceptance speech. The Giver, Lois Lowry's Newbery Medal-winning novel, has become one of the most influential books of our time. Placed on countless reading lists and curricula, translated into more than forty languages, and made into a feature film, The Giver is a modern classic. Celebrate this beloved contribution to children's literature with the 25th Anniversary Edition. The haunting story of twelve-year-old Jonas, who lives in a seemingly ideal, if colorless, world of conformity, is as resonant today as when it was first published. Lois Lowry will include a new afterword as well as her Newbery acceptance speech in this edition. This ebook includes a sample chapter of sequel Gathering Blue.
Discussion points
How do you think Jonas felt when he was given his life assignment? What would you feel if you were in his place?
Why do you think the community in the book has chosen to eliminate pain and strong emotions? Do you think it's a good choice?
How does the idea of 'Sameness' in Jonas’ world compare to our world’s diversity? What are the pros and cons of each?
What role do memories play in our lives according to the book? How would our lives be different without them?
What did you think about the ending? What do you imagine happens next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the society in the book and compare it to our own society. This helps develop empathy and critical thinking.
Ask your child to consider the significance of memory and emotion in human experience, emphasizing the importance of both in personal growth.
Discuss the protagonist Jonas’s decisions and actions, and ask your child what they would do differently if they were in his shoes. This promotes ethical reasoning and decision-making skills.
Relate themes of the book, such as control, freedom, and individuality, to current events or personal family experiences to deepen the connection and understanding.
Ensure the conversation remains open and non-judgmental to invite honest thoughts and feelings from your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of emotions
Explanation: In 'The Giver', the society has suppressed emotions to maintain order. The protagonist, Jonas, learns about the richness of life through experiencing emotions, pointing to their importance in human experience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and express their feelings, understanding that emotions are integral to the human experience and help us connect with others.
Example Lesson: The value of individuality
Explanation: The community in 'The Giver' promotes conformity, but as Jonas gains knowledge, he starts to cherish individuality and freedom of choice, which are stifled in his world.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate their uniqueness and the diversity of others, fostering a sense of self and respect for different perspectives.
Example Lesson: The role of memory and learning from the past
Explanation: In the novel, memories are held by The Giver and passed to Jonas, who learns that memories, both good and bad, are essential for learning from past mistakes and making better decisions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of history and memory in shaping decisions and moral judgments, emphasizing the importance of learning from various experiences.
Example Lesson: The power of choice
Explanation: Jonas's journey in 'The Giver' shows the limitations and consequences of a society where choices are made by others. His awakening underscores the empowerment found in making one's own choices.
Real-World Application: It imparts the value of decision-making skills in children, teaching them the importance of autonomy and the impact of their choices on their lives.
Example Lesson: Courage to challenge the status quo
Explanation: As Jonas discovers the truths about his society, he shows courage in questioning and challenging the societal norms that he believes are unjust.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to stand up for their beliefs and question practices they feel are unfair, encouraging critical thinking and active participation in society.