Reading and Debating

The boys and I finished reading The Giver together. Friends of mine had asked me how I think ten-year-olds would do with that book. It’s got some challenging themes about humanity and courage and compassion, but the storyline is clear and accessible to young people and I felt my guys were ready to tackle the issues it brings up.  I thought they’d enjoy it.

Boy, did they. Jonas’s story made them wonder and speculate and puzzle and worry in a delicious way. The ending spurred debate, as it does with all readers. That’s one aspect that had me really curious. How would the boys interpret it? Turns out they came up with all the possible interpretations I’ve heard from older readers. Ultimately, two boys insisted on the happiest options, and they all hope for additional insight from the next books in the Giver quartet. I’ve only read Gathering Blue—the second book, which we started last night together—so I don’t know if extra insight regarding The Giver’s ending will be had. I doubt it since I haven’t heard that to be the case. Regardless, it’s fun wondering with them.