The Giver
by Lois Lowry
Delacorte Books for Young Readers 2006
Book 1 of The Giver Quartet
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 5.7 (5th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- conformity vs. individuality
- memory and emotion
- freedom and control
- coming of age
- ethics and responsibility
- identity
- choice and consequence
About this book
In a seemingly perfect community where pain and choice have been erased, twelve-year-old Jonas is chosen for special training as the Receiver of Memory. As he learns about true feelings, color, and the past, he begins to question the cost of perfection and the rules that shape his world. The story is thought-provoking yet accessible, inviting readers to consider big ideas about freedom and responsibility. Ideal for advanced elementary and middle school readers who enjoy suspenseful, reflective dystopian tales.
Setting: a tightly controlled, futuristic community
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Giver right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Giver. The reading level is AR 5.7, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include conformity vs. individuality, memory and emotion, freedom and control.
How long does it take to read The Giver?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, The Giver takes around 4.4h to finish. The book has 43,617 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Giver have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Giver 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?
The Giver has an AR reading level of 5.7, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — 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.