Given his lifetime assignment at the Ceremony of Twelve, Jonas becomes the receiver of memories shared by only one other in his community and discovers the terrible truth about the society in which he lives.

Liz says:

“This is a masterfully written book about a dystopian society; it is absolutely a classic. (There are 2 companion books: Gathering Blue and Messenger. They are less compelling but for fans of The Giver you will find answers to all of the questions you are sure to be left with.) I think this is best read from 6th grade up but many 5th graders do read it. Parents will want to read this as well!”

In 1943, during the German occupation of Denmark, ten-year-old Annemarie learns how to be brave and courageous when she helps shelter her Jewish friend from the Nazis.

Liz says:

“What an amazing story. If you want your kids to know about the Holocaust, or if they already know a little, this is the perfect book. Told with sensitivity and hopefulness and filled with historical accuracy, Lowry gives us a true gem!”