Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Riveting, expertly crafted novel shows utopia's flaws.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 116 parent reviews
Parents say the book is a thought-provoking read that addresses complex themes such as dystopian societies, the importance of emotions and individuality, but opinions on its appropriateness for younger readers vary widely. While some appreciate its capacity to spark meaningful discussions and critical thinking, others find its darker themes, like euthanasia and societal control, unsettling for children, leading to mixed reactions on age suitability.
- thought-provoking themes
- age appropriateness debated
- mixed reader reactions
- complex societal critique
- encourages discussions
- dark content concerns
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 410 kid reviews
Kids say they love this thought-provoking book that opens discussions on complex themes, such as individuality and the consequences of a controlled, emotionless society. While many praise its engaging plot and the memorable character of Jonas, some express concern over its mature content, suggesting that it may be more suitable for older readers, particularly due to sensitive topics like euthanasia and emotional conflict.
- engaging plot
- thought-provoking themes
- mature content
- individuality
- suitable for older readers
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In Lois Lowry's THE GIVER, Jonas is part of a community where there is no pain, no crime, no greed, and no unhappiness. There is also no love, no desire, and no colors or music. At each birthday, every child in the community reaches a new milestone that's commemorated with a special ceremony. Ultimately, at age 12, each child receives a life assignment for which he or she will begin training. When Jonas receives his life assignment to be the Receiver of Memories, his mentor, The Giver, trains Jonas by transferring to him memories of a past that the others in the community can't even imagine, in which there was war, hunger, and disease, but also color, weather, and strong emotions. Gradually, Jonas comes to understand, and resent, the choices that were made to create his world, and the terrible secrets behind its perfection. Together, he and The Giver concoct a plan to change their world.
Is It Any Good?
This classic dystopian novel is not only entertaining but also a perfect book to discuss in a family or classroom setting. The Giver examines the trade-offs of a utopian society through the eyes of a sensitive 12-year-old boy. Author Lois Lowry invites readers to consider the pros and cons of Jonas' community and imagine a life without highs and lows. Is a life with no suffering worth living without music or color? Would you give up love if it meant never feeling pain? Jonas is a beautifully realized, big-hearted 12-year-old living a rich individual life in a colorless, faceless world, and his predicament is intensely compelling.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the utopian society depicted in The Giver. What do you like or dislike about this community?
The Giver is categorized as a dystopian novel. What are the elements of a dystopian novel? What other dystopian stories have you read? Which are your favorites?
Why do you think The Giver is considered a classic and is often assigned in school? What does it have to teach kids and teens?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Contemporary Fiction
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Houghton Mifflin Children's Books
- Publication date : January 1, 1993
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 14
- Number of pages : 180
- Award : Newbery Medal and Honors
- Last updated : February 7, 2026
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