Introducing: The Giver by Lois Lowry
Quick Intro:
Jonas was born into the perfect world. Here, couples are matched by the government for a perfect balance, careers are given out by the government for the perfect match, and death and birth are arranged by the government for perfect timing. But when Jonas turns 12 and is assigned the role of Receiver of Memories, he learns that his world isn't as perfect as it seemed.
My thoughts:
By the time I'd left grade school, I'd probably read this book three times. Most of my grade had read it, too. (I know at least one teacher assigned it.) Quotes from this book were actually an inside joke in my classroom.
I think of this book as dystopia-light, intro reading for the kids who'll grow up to adore 1984, Fahrenheit 451, and other books on the Banned Books list. Moreover, it's got a male MC and a gender neutral plot, doesn't involve too much violence or sexuality, and the diction is not overly advanced, so this book is appropriate for anyone 10+. Actually, I don't think I've ever met someone who didn't enjoy the book. (Though, I could be repressing the opinions of some of my 6th grade class. Can't remember all of those.)
Other thoughts:
A West Wing quote about book banning: "He banned Fahrenheit 451 which is about banning books." I'd like to take this moment to appreciate the irony (and irony makes the world go 'round) of the fact that many books people like to ban either involve banning books or involve worlds where there are no disseminated books. 1984, Fahrenheit 451, The Giver, etc.
In other news: Talei, thank you for giving me the award. As I've previously received it, I'll simply link to that post.
That is so ironic about Farenheit 451, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteIrony does make the world go round, only unfortunately those who'd need to see it are blind to it.
ReplyDeleteAll those parents wanting to keep books from their kids...what do they want to do? Create adults who panic when they're confronted with that little thing called LIFE?
Ahem.
Great post, my dear! And great idea to "celebrate" Banned Books Week
I loved The Giver and I hate hearing that all these books have been up for ridicule and crap. UNCOOL! I'm so glad we are celebrating Banned Books Week!
ReplyDeleteI also did a review of banned books, if you want to check it out.
ReplyDeleteI read The Giver as an adult, and it was my first MG/YA book in years. It made me want to read more of the genres. It's one of my favorite books.
The Giver is a wonderful book. Even my son is reading it for the second time.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if you accept awards, but I posted one for you over on my site. The rules came with a 15 site pass-along, but I've seen people who only did a few. Whatever you do, enjoy!
Susan -- I concur.
ReplyDeleteTessa -- That's probably true. I'm glad you enjoyed the post.
Jen -- I agree, very uncool.
Theresa -- The Giver is an amazing book for people of all ages. I'm glad you liked it. :)
Carolyn -- That's so much. You're very kind to think of me. :)