The classic novel, which many remember from required reading in middle school grades, is just as relevant today, and perhaps even more compelling to read with an adult’s eyes rather than a pre-teen’s. Browsing through the pages still made me gasp at moments at Lois Lowry’s sensitive and powerful writing. In her simple story of a world without inequality, suffering, real love, or choice, she certainly addresses plenty of deep adult themes related to what it means to be human and live life fully. Such themes are ones we can appreciate all our lives, and that the lessons come in such a beautifully-written story makes it even more enjoyable.
There are several great additions to this 25th anniversary edition (the original was published in 1993). One is the Newbery Medal acceptance speech that she gave in 1994. This is the second book for which Lowry received the highest honor for children’s literature, and it’s worth picking up this book just to page through the speech for her insight into the eternal question posed to authors, “where did you get the idea for this book?” Whether you’re an aspiring author or just admire them, this little peek inside one author’s writing process was rewarding!
The Giver
by Lois Lowry
New Arrivals Island, 2nd Floor
F Low
