The Giver by Lois Lowry

Rating: 3/5

Summary:

Jonas is a small child. He lives in a very secure environment with a great deal of order and rules. There are numerous rules that everyone adheres to. Citizens' lives are planned for them, and they rarely make decisions on their own. They make an effort not to say anything contradictory. One rule is to never say anything that will make someone else feel uncomfortable. A special committee matches each husband and wife. There are two children in each family, one boy and one girl. Jonas and the rest of his group will be given special jobs when they become the Twelves in December. Jonas is given an extra special job because he is intelligent and well liked. His new position is that of Receiver of Memories. The Receiver of Memories is the only member of the group who has access to all past memories. Jonas is initially very enthusiastic. But he soon discovers some truths about the residents of the neighborhood. He realizes that this way of life is inequitable. He wants people to be able to make their own decisions. Jonas devises an intriguing plan to transform the neighborhood. He determines that the community must be relocated. They will regain their memories and be able to live a good and fair life as a result of his plan.

Strengths:

Jonas greatest strength is his mental fortitude. His world has been forever changed, and everything he ever believed to be true has proven to be false, but he has remained strong throughout.

Weaknesses:

Jonas' only flaw is his lack of knowledge. Even after being given all of the world's knowledge, Jonas is still unsure about everything. He doesn't realize the magnitude of his job's importance at first. He doesn't realize that whatever he does with his knowledge will have a long-term impact on the community.

My Opinion:

When Jonas begins to see colors, it is my favorite part of the book. That was brilliant as a metaphoric comparison of life with and without emotion, in my opinion. The book ended on a cliffhanger, leaving the reader wondering what will happen to Jonas and Gabriel as they approach this new civilization, which raises many questions. But I thought this was a good way to end the story because they actually went on the sled ride that Jonas remembered from his childhood. I would strongly advise anyone over the age of 12 to read this book because they will have to comprehend the complexities of a society without emotions. I believe it would appeal to anyone, but especially to those who are interested in social issues, fiction, or simply want to be entertained.