13 books like The Giver

13 books like The Giver

January 27, 2024
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Written by: the NextBook team
Hey there! So you've stumbled upon The Giver, huh? Well, let me tell you, this book is a mind-bender that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about society. I mean, seriously, strap yourself in for an adventure like no other! In case you're new to The Giver, let me give you a quick rundown. Written by Lois Lowry, it's set in a seemingly utopian society where everything is peaceful and predictable. But here's the twist: this apparent paradise is achieved by suppressing emotions, memories, and even colors! Our protagonist, Jonas, is chosen to be the Receiver of Memories and is faced with the harsh reality that lies beneath the surface. From there, it's a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery, rebellion, and unveiling the dark secrets their society holds. Now, if you're like me, finishing a book leaves you wanting more. So, fear not! I've got your back. In the upcoming posts, I'll be sharing some book recommendations that capture the same essence of The Giver. These books will take you on similar journeys, exploring dystopian societies, grappling with challenging moral dilemmas, and diving deep into the complexities of human nature. So, stay tuned and get ready to embark on some literary adventures that will keep you gripped from page one!
The Book Cover Image for The Giver
The Book Cover Image for The Giver
Dystopian
Totalitarianism
Surveillance

1984

"1984" is a dystopian novel written by George Orwell, depicting a future society ruled by a totalitarian government where individualism and independent thought are crushed. The protagonist, Winston Smith, rebels against the oppressive regime, exploring themes of government control, surveillance, and the power of language.
Author
George Orwell
Year Written
1949
Read Time
5h50m
1984
Dystopian
Science Fiction
Futuristic

Brave New World

In Brave New World, Aldous Huxley presents a chilling vision of a future society that prioritizes happiness and stability above all else, achieved through the control of human reproduction, consumption, and personal relationships. As conflicts arise between individual freedom and societal control, the characters navigate a world where emotions are suppressed and conformity is enforced with both technological advancements and rigid social structures.
Author
Aldous Huxley
Year Written
1931
Read Time
4h48m
Brave New World
Dystopian
Science Fiction
Censorship

Fahrenheit 451

"Fahrenheit 451" is a dystopian science fiction novel that takes place in a future society where books are banned and burned. It follows the story of a fireman named Guy Montag who questions his role in a society that suppresses knowledge and encourages ignorance.
Author
Ray Bradbury
Year Written
1953
Read Time
3h12m
Fahrenheit 451
Dystopian
Adventure
Mystery

The Maze Runner

"The Maze Runner" is a gripping dystopian novel where a group of young boys are trapped in a maze, with no memory of their past, and must find a way to escape before time runs out. As they face deadly creatures and unravel the mysteries of the maze, the story delves into themes of survival, friendship, and sacrifice.
Author
James Dashner
Year Written
2009
Read Time
The Maze Runner
Dystopian
Adventure
Coming of Age

Divergent

In a dystopian society, "Divergent" follows Tris Prior as she discovers her unique identity and challenges the rigid system that divides people based on their traits. With action, romance, and exploration of identity, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and rebellion.
Author
Veronica Roth
Year Written
2011
Read Time
Divergent
Dystopian
Adventure
Survival

The Hunger Games

"The Hunger Games" is a dystopian novel set in a future where children from different districts are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death. It follows the story of Katniss Everdeen as she defies the oppressive regime and fights for survival and rebellion.
Author
Suzanne Collins
Year Written
2008
Read Time
6h24m
The Hunger Games
Dystopian
Feminism
Oppression

The Handmaid's Tale

The Handmaid's Tale is a chilling dystopian novel that follows the harrowing journey of a handmaid named Offred in a society where women's rights have been stripped away. Through her eyes, readers witness the oppression, desperation, and resilience that define this haunting story.
Author
Margaret Atwood
Year Written
1985
Read Time
5h50m
The Handmaid's Tale
Science Fiction
Young Adult
Military

Ender's Game

"Ender's Game" is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Andrew "Ender" Wiggin, a young boy enlisted in an advanced military school in order to prepare for an impending alien invasion. As Ender navigates intense training, complex interpersonal relationships, and ethical dilemmas, the book explores themes of leadership, morality, and the effects of war on youth.
Author
Orson Scott Card.
Year Written
1985
Read Time
Ender's Game
Dystopian
Coming of Age
Science Fiction

Uglies

In Uglies, set in a dystopian future, Tally Youngblood is eagerly anticipating her sixteenth birthday when she will undergo a surgery that will transform her from an "ugly" to a "pretty." However, as she becomes involved with a group of rebels, Tally starts questioning the true cost of beauty and the control of the society she lives in.
Author
Scott Westerfeld
Year Written
2005
Read Time
7h28m
Uglies
Dystopian
Coming of Age
Science Fiction

Never Let Me Go

"Never Let Me Go" is a poignant and haunting novel that follows the lives of three friends, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, as they navigate a seemingly idyllic boarding school called Hailsham and grapple with the harsh realities of their destiny. It is a thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, identity, and what it means to be human.
Author
Kazuo Ishiguro
Year Written
2005
Read Time
5h4m
Never Let Me Go
Dystopian
Adventure
Discovery

The City of Ember

The City of Ember is a gripping dystopian novel set in an underground city where two young protagonists uncover secrets that could save their entire community from destruction. With a unique and suspenseful storyline, this book is a thrilling adventure that explores themes of discovery and determination.
Author
Jeanne DuPrau
Year Written
2003
Read Time
2h49m
The City of Ember
Post-Apocalyptic
Survival
Family

The Road

The Road is a post-apocalyptic novel by Cormac McCarthy that follows a father and son journeying through a desolate and dangerous world. It explores themes of survival, love, and hope amidst the bleakest of circumstances.
Author
Cormac McCarthy
Year Written
2006
Read Time
4h1m
The Road

The Selection

"The Selection" is a captivating and romantic dystopian novel where a young girl is thrust into a competition to win the heart of a prince. The book delves into themes of love, social class, and the struggle for acceptance, making it an engaging read for fans of romance and dystopian fiction.
Author
Kiera Cass
Year Written
2012
Read Time
The Selection

FAQ

Overview

In the seemingly idyllic community of The Giver, everything is controlled and predictable. No pain, no choices, and certainly no emotions. Enter Jonas, a young boy chosen to become the Receiver of Memories, a role that exposes him to the truths that the rest of society is shielded from. Guided by the wise Giver, Jonas embarks on a journey of self-discovery and rebellion against the oppressive regime. As Jonas delves deeper into his training, he starts questioning the conformity and suppression that come with the pursuit of a "perfect" society. Along the way, he forms unexpected friendships and uncover harrowing secrets, ultimately leading to a decision that could change everything. The Giver, written by Lois Lowry, is a dystopian novel that challenges the reader to think about the importance of individuality, human connection, and the true meaning of happiness. It delves into complex themes such as the drawbacks of a society devoid of emotions and memories, and the vital role that individual experiences and choices play in shaping our lives. Through its gripping narrative and thought-provoking plot, The Giver forces us to question the price of conformity and the need for genuine human connections in the face of an oppressive system.

Length of Read

The average reader, reading at a speed of 300 WPM, would take 2 hours and 35 minutes to read The Giver by Lois Lowry.

Main Characters

- Jonas: The young, curious protagonist who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memories, and his journey of discovering the truth about his society forms the backbone of the story. - The Giver: The wise and mysterious mentor figure who holds the memories of the past, guiding Jonas and challenging the status quo of their seemingly perfect society. - Asher: Jonas's best friend, known for his playful and sometimes confusing language, adding a touch of humor and friendship to the narrative. - Fiona: A compassionate and caring girl who becomes Jonas's love interest, showcasing the importance of empathy and human connection in a world devoid of emotions. - The Chief Elder: The authoritative figure who presides over the ceremonies and symbolizes the rigid control and conformity enforced in their society, creating tension and conflict throughout the story.

Ending & Meaning

Alright, buckle up because we're diving into the ending of The Giver! So, after Jonas uncovers the truth about his society's messed-up ways and decides to escape with baby Gabriel, they embark on a wild and dangerous journey. Picture this: battling the elements, facing hunger, and constantly on the run. But guess what? They never lose hope. In the end, Jonas and Gabriel reach the border of a new society, where they're greeted by music and lights. It's like stepping into a whole new world, a glimmer of hope for a better future. The author leaves us hanging, not knowing exactly what happens next, but it's clear that Jonas and Gabriel have found a chance at true freedom and a life filled with emotions, memories, and love. Now, here's the beauty of The Giver: it's packed with themes and meanings that'll make your brain tingle. One of the big takeaways is the power of individuality and human connection. The society in the book is all about sameness and control, stripping away what makes us human – emotions, memories, the ability to feel deeply. Through Jonas's journey, we learn the importance of embracing our uniqueness and forming genuine connections with others. Another theme is the true nature of happiness. The book challenges the idea that a perfect, painless existence is the key to happiness. It suggests that true happiness comes from the full spectrum of human experiences, even the difficult ones. It's about having the freedom to choose, to feel, and to connect with others on a deep level. So, my friend, if there's one thing you can take away from the ending of The Giver, let it be this: embrace your individuality, seek genuine connections, and remember that true happiness lies in the fullness of human experience. And hey, if you're hungry for more thought-provoking reads, stick around because I'll be sharing some book recommendations that will blow your mind!
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