One of my all time faves! I just read this to my 9,7,4,and 2 year old. The kids couldn't get enough. We zipped through in a couple of days. This book spurred great discussion.
In a futuristic utopian society, Jonas knows nothing about suffering, hunger, anxiety, choice, color, or love. His path is laid out for him by the age of twelve. He has a family unit that he was assigned to. His job will be chosen for him. His food is provided by community workers. Everything is the same for everyone. Choice is made nonexistant so that a wrong choice can never be made.
When Jonas reaches his year of twelve, he is assigned the job he will train for and work in until he is taken to the House of the Old. Jonas becomes the new Receiver for the community. Memories from 'back and back and back' are given to Jonas by the aging Receiver turned Giver. Jonas will hold these memories as an honored Elder. He will abide the joy and suffering that the community will not be allowed or burdened to know.
Jonas begins to realize that his utopian community is clearly not as ideal as he once thought. In fact there is no choice, no emotion, no love.
One part that clearly struck me in this novel was the lack of color. Many times I have read the same description from those speaking about the oppression of communism.
Rating 5 Everyone should read this. Very 1984 but cleaner.
Rating PG Some inferences to sexual feelings that they call 'stirrings' and take pills to squelch. Also a shocking scene which I won't *spoil*.
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