The Giver
Life in the community where Jonas lives is idyllic. Designated birthmothers produce newchildren, who are assigned to appropriate family units. Citizens are assigned their partners and their jobs. No one thinks to ask questions. Everyone obeys. Everyone is the same. Except Jonas.
Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory does he begin to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile community. Gradually Jonas learns that power lies in feelings. But when his own power is put to the test—when he must try to save someone he loves—he may not be ready. Is it too soon? Or too late?
Told with deceptive simplicity, this is the provocative story of a boy who experiences something incredible and undertakes something impossible. In the telling it questions every value we have taken for granted and reexamines our most deeply held beliefs.
Challenges:
- Infanticide: The book describes the euthanasia of infants considered “imperfect” by the community, a practice that has drawn criticism.
- Suicide: A scene depicts assisted suicide (euthanasia) as a normal part of society, which some view as inappropriate for young readers.
- Violence: The book contains descriptions of violence and other disturbing content.
- Sexual themes: Some critics have also cited sexual themes in the book.
- Other controversial topics: The book also explores themes of conformity, control, and the suppression of individuality, which some find objectionable.