Amanda Barajas

The Giver is indeed a novel full of adventure and illustrious mystery-- however it also contains many hidden philosophies worth inquiring. After reading the Giver, my head couldn't stop buzzing-- I had so many questions, and ideas, and put in loads of paper-sticky notes. This novel is great in any context-- whether it's in the classroom, or simply at-home curiosity. Of course, my current experience is years apart from my initial experience. When I first read the book, not everything clicked. But after moments of careful thought and consideration, trust me-- when you pick up the book again, you'll be introduced to a lifetime of new inquiries. Here are my takeaways: 1.) The novel's a great book to read anywhere 2.) If the concepts do not make sense at first, take some time away from it, and after some thinking come back to it. 3.) Read/think at your own pace. I took several breaks during sections, to fully process each major event before carrying to the next event. And lastly, some thought-evoking prompts: - Do you think the world is better off living in a structured organization of society, where personal/political/expressive liberties are sacrificed? Is the world better off in eternal equilibrium? - We often see the term "world peace" as having a good connotation. However, if that concept were to be achieved, then everyone would have one mindset. What are the inverse/possible impacts of a world in world peace? - Imagine that all barriers of the outside world are taken down. What would the so-called structural integrity of The Giver's community succumb to?