The Giver is so well-written that I was engaged in the first few pages. Unlike most stories, I can’t label The Giver by a specific label, other than to say it’s a novel. Based on an imaginary world, it tells of a community where everyone is the same. Children are referred to by their ages rather than as simply a child. A Ten, An Eight, A Two and each has different expectations from the community.

All eight-year-olds, or Eights as they are called, must dress the same, have the same hairstyles, same shoes and socks. On their birthday, people’s requirements change. Rules are strict and if they are broken, the person is publicly shamed. If a girl’s hair ribbons come loose, for example she is chastised in front of the entire community. Eating two apples can result in an announcement that “Snacks are to be eaten, not hoarded.”

No one can have individual tastes. People’s names are pre-determined, not by their parents but another authority in the community. No one dates or decides whom they will marry. Jobs aren’t chosen, but assigned.

When children turn 12, they are considered adults and the Chief Elder announces each one’s Life Assignment and are thanked for their childhood. When Jonas turns 12, though, we learn that he’s different. He’s special and sees things change, something never before imagined in their isolated world. He can’t imagine what it will be like to be different from anyone else.

A great book.