The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition
A Newbery Award Winner
by Lois Lowry
HarperCollins 2011
Great fit for 5th grade
Reading level and content both target 4th–8th grade · ages 9–14
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- conformity vs individuality
- memory and truth
- freedom of choice
- control and authority
- identity
- courage
- ethics
- coming of age
About this book
In a perfectly ordered community where every decision is made for its citizens, twelve-year-old Jonas is chosen for a rare and honored role that opens his eyes to deeper truths. As he begins special training, he discovers the weight of memory and the cost of sameness. This thoughtful, page-turning dystopian classic is ideal for upper elementary and middle school readers who enjoy big ideas and rich discussion. Kids are drawn to its mysterious world, relatable hero, and the way it invites them to question rules, choice, and what makes a good society.
Setting: a tightly controlled, futuristic community
Readers also enjoyed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition right for my child?
Yes — The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition is a great fit for 5th grade. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 9–14 (4th–8th grade). Themes include conformity vs individuality, memory and truth, freedom of choice.
How long does it take to read The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition takes around 4.4h to finish. The book has 43,617 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition has an AR quiz available, worth 7 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition?
The Giver Illustrated Gift Edition has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades (4–8) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.