The Giver - Book report

2024 16 17:38

Summarizing of the first chapter

Jonas - the main character

Lily - Joans sister
Joans Father is a Nurturer.

The first chapter introduces a highly controlled, seemingly utopian society where a young boy named Jonas lives. The community is
peaceful, orderly, and everything is regulated to ensure conformity. People follow strict rules, and emotions are suppressed.
Jonas feels apprehensive as the annual Ceremony of Twelve approaches. This is a significant event where twelve-year-olds are assigned
their lifelong roles in the community. Each child receives a job chosen by the Elders based on their skills and interests. Jonas wonders what
assignment he will receive, as he doesn't feel a strong connection to any specific role.
The chapter gives a glimpse of the society s controlled nature, like "releases," which are hinted at but not fully explained, and the use of
precise language to avoid misunderstandings. Jonas' father, a Nurturer, is caring for a struggling baby named Gabriel, who might face
"release" if he doesn't improve.

Summarizing of the second chapter

Jonas father sister s name is Katya

Jonas mom is a lawyer
Jonas and his parents discuss the upcoming Ceremony of Twelve, a significant event where children turning twelve are assigned their life-
long roles in the community. Jonas feels anxious about what his assignment will be, as each role is chosen by the community s Elders based
on an individual s skills and interests.
Jonas's father recalls how he was chosen to be a Nurturer, and his mother shares her experience being selected for her role in the
Department of Justice. Jonas's parents try to reassure him, telling him that the Elders are always right in their choices, as they observe
each child carefully. However, Jonas still feels nervous and uncertain about his future.
This chapter emphasizes the importance of the community's structure and control, as well as Jonas s growing sense of unease about the
future.

Summarizing of chapter 3

Jonas's family takes in a new - child named Gabriel, who has pale eyes, just like Jonas. Pale eyes are rare in the community, as most people
have dark eyes, making this similarity between Jonas and Gabriel stand out. Lily, Jonas's younger sister, comments on Gabriel s unusual
appearance, and Jonas starts to feel a sense of connection to him.

Later, Jonas recalls a memory of breaking a community rule when he brought an apple home from recreation time. He noticed something
odd happen to the apple it seemed to change in a way he couldn t understand. This moment hints at Jonas's special abilities, though they
aren't explained yet. The chapter further emphasizes the strictness of the rules in Jonas's community and begins to set up Jonas as
someone who experiences the world differently from others.

Summarizing of chapter 4

Jonas goes to the House of the Old, where people who have reached a certain age live until they are "released." Jonas often volunteers
here, along with his friends Fiona and Asher, as part of the required volunteer hours that all children must complete to learn about
different occupations before they receive their job assignments at the Ceremony of Twelve.
While helping bathe an elderly woman named Larissa, Jonas listens to her talk about the "release" ceremony of another resident, Roberto.
Larissa describes the ceremony as a joyous and dignified occasion but doesn t provide many details about what "release" really means.
Jonas is curious about the process but is told that no one knows exactly what happens during a release.
The chapter provides more insight into the community's structure and rituals, showing how controlled and regulated everything is, even
the care of the elderly. It also hints at Jonas's growing curiosity about the deeper truths behind the community's rules and ceremonies.

Summarizing of chapter 5

Jonas's family follows their daily ritual of sharing dreams at breakfast.

When it's Jonas's turn, he hesitates but then describes a dream he had.
In the dream, Jonas was in the bathing room at the House of the Old, and he wanted to bathe Fiona, his friend, but she wasn t agreeing.
His feelings in the dream were strong, and he found it unsettling.
Jonas s mother explains that his dream is an example of "Stirrings," which are feelings of desire that begin in adolescence.
In the community, Stirrings are suppressed by taking a mandatory pill every day.
His parents reassure him that these feelings are normal, but to prevent them, Jonas must now take this pill daily, just as they do.
Jonas feels uncomfortable but accepts this new part of growing up.
This chapter reveals more about how the community controls emotions and suppresses natural human instincts to maintain order and
sameness. It also shows Jonas s first encounter with feelings of attraction, which will become important as the story progresses.

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Summarizing of chapter 6

the community continues with the Ceremony, where each age group of children is recognized for their transition to a new stage of life.
Jonas s family prepares to attend the second day of the Ceremony. Jonas reflects on how families in the community are assigned children
rather than having them naturally.
The Ceremony begins with the younger children receiving new clothing or other objects that mark their age group. For example, Sevens
are given front-buttoned jackets to signify independence. Eights begin their volunteer hours in the community, and Nines receive their
bicycles, which symbolize growing independence and responsibility.
Jonas s friend, Gabriel, the new - child his family has been caring for, was not given to a family unit during this year s ceremony. Instead,
because of his slow development, Gabriel is granted an extra year of nurturing before being placed with a family. Jonas feels a sense of
relief for Gabriel but also worries about his future.
The chapter highlights the rigid structure and control the community has over each individual s life, even down to specific milestones for
each age. It also emphasizes the importance of conformity and order in Jonas s world, as well as the increasing tension about the
upcoming Ceremony of Twelve, where Jonas will receive his own life assignment.

Summarizing of chapter 7

the Ceremony of Twelve finally begins, and Jonas is filled with nervous anticipation about his future assignment.
Each Twelve is called up in order of their birth numbers to receive their assigned job, which is selected by the Elders based on their skills,
interests, and volunteer hours.
As the Ceremony progresses, Jonas watches his friends receive their assignments.
Fiona is selected to be a Caretaker of the Old, while Asher, Jonas s best friend, is assigned the position of Assistant Director of Recreation, a
role that fits his fun and energetic personality.
However, something strange happens during the Ceremony: when it s Jonas s turn, his number is skipped. This causes confusion and
anxiety for Jonas, as it seems like he s been overlooked. He s left sitting there, feeling embarrassed and unsure of what this means.
The audience notices the unusual mistake, and Jonas begins to feel increasingly uneasy.

Summarizing of chapter 8

( in chapter 8 we hear that Jonas has been selected to be the next Receiver of Memory )

the tension builds as Jonas is still reeling from being skipped during the Ceremony of Twelve. After all the other Twelves have received
their Assignments, the Chief Elder addresses the crowd and Jonas directly, explaining why he was passed over.
She reveals that Jonas has not been assigned a typical job, but instead, he has been selected for a very special and rare role: The Receiver
of Memory. The Chief Elder explains that this is the most important position in the community, one that requires intelligence, integrity,
courage, wisdom, and the ability to "see beyond," a unique capacity that Jonas possesses. She acknowledges that this position will be
difficult and come with significant responsibility, and the community is reminded of the great honor and weight this role carries.
The chapter concludes with Jonas feeling a mixture of awe and fear. The crowd chants his name, solidifying his selection as something
extraordinary, but Jonas himself feels a sense of uncertainty about what his new role will involve and how it will change his life.

Summarizing of chapter 9

Jonas begins to feel the weight of his new role as the Receiver of Memory.
After the Ceremony, his relationship with his friends, especially Asher, starts to change. While his friends are excited about their new
Assignments, Jonas feels distant and different from them because of the special nature of his selection.
Jonas receives a folder with instructions about his new role.
The rules are surprising and unsettling: he is allowed to lie, ask any questions he wants, and exempted from rules regarding rudeness. He is
also told he cannot share anything about his training and is not permitted to discuss his dreams.
Even more shocking is the rule stating he cannot apply for release.
Jonas is disturbed by these rules, especially the idea of lying, since honesty is a core value in the community.
The chapter ends with Jonas feeling isolated and confused, realizing that his life is about to change in ways he doesn t fully understand.

Summarizing of chapter 10

Jonas begins his training with the Giver. He enters the Annex, a hidden area behind the House of the Old, where he meets the Giver, an
older man with a beard. The Giver explains that he will transmit memories to Jonas, which is essential for Jonas to understand emotions
and experiences beyond the community's controlled existence.
Jonas receives his first memory, which is of snow and sledding down a hill. This experience is exhilarating and new for him, contrasting
sharply with the sameness of his life in the community. The chapter highlights the beginning of Jonas s awakening to feelings and
sensations that his society has chosen to eliminate for the sake of order and predictability.

Summarizing of chapter 11

Jonas continues his training with the Giver, who begins to transmit more complex memories to him. Jonas receives his second memory,
which is of a sunburn, giving him a taste of physical pain. This experience marks a significant shift in Jonas s understanding of emotions and
sensations.
The chapter also introduces the concept of colors, which have been eliminated from Jonas's society to maintain sameness. Jonas learns

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The chapter also introduces the concept of colors, which have been eliminated from Jonas's society to maintain sameness. Jonas learns
about the color red through the memory of a red apple and realizes that the community lacks the ability to see colors. The Giver explains
that colors represent deeper emotions and individuality, which the community has sacrificed for uniformity.
As Jonas absorbs these new experiences, he starts to feel more isolated from his peers, who cannot understand or share in his newfound
knowledge. This chapter emphasizes the contrast between Jonas's emerging awareness and the limited perception of those in his
community, setting the stage for his growing conflict with the societal norms around him.

Summarizing of chapter 12

Jonas begins to explore his new role as the Receiver of Memory more deeply. He reflects on his previous experiences with the Giver and
his newfound awareness of colors and emotions. During this chapter, Jonas is assigned to observe a lesson at the School of the Twelve,
where he notices the stark differences between his experiences and those of his classmates.
While watching his friends, Jonas sees them participating in a game that involves a red toy, which he now recognizes as something
meaningful and vibrant, unlike the blandness of their everyday lives.
This moment illustrates his growing understanding of the significance of color and individual experience.
Jonas also learns about the importance of memory and how it shapes understanding. The Giver explains that the community has sacrificed
colors and emotions to eliminate pain and conflict, but this has also stripped away joy and individuality. As Jonas grapples with these
revelations, he feels increasingly disconnected from his peers, emphasizing his unique position and the burden of knowledge he now
carries.
This chapter serves as a critical turning point, highlighting Jonas's journey toward greater awareness and his struggle with the implications
of his new role in a society that values conformity over individuality.

Summarizing of chapter 13

Jonas continues to grapple with the implications of his training and the memories he has received.
The Giver shares more memories with him, including a powerful experience of love and the emotion of longing, which further deepens
Jonas's understanding of human connections. He learns about the complexity of feelings that exist beyond the shallow emotional
landscape of his community.
Jonas also experiences a memory of war, which starkly contrasts with the peaceful existence promoted in his society.
This memory introduces him to the concept of pain and suffering, emphasizing the high cost of the community's choice to eliminate
emotions and conflict.
During this chapter, Jonas becomes increasingly aware of the limitations imposed on his community's inhabitants. He begins to question
the choices made by the leaders and the sacrifices made for the sake of sameness.
This growing awareness creates a sense of urgency in Jonas, as he realizes that understanding emotions and memories is essential for true
humanity.
The chapter concludes with Jonas feeling a mixture of anger about the community's lack of depth in experience,
setting the stage for his internal conflict and the difficult decisions he will face as he continues his journey as the Receiver of Memory.

Summarizing of chapter 14

Jonas continues his training with the Giver and receives more intense memories.
This chapter focuses on a particularly painful memory of war and suffering, which leaves a profound impact on Jonas. The Giver transmits
to him the experience of a battlefield, where he witnesses the horrors of conflict, injury, and loss.
This memory highlights the stark contrast between the painful reality of human experience and the sanitized existence of his community.
After experiencing the memory, Jonas feels immense grief and confusion.
He struggles with the heavy emotions that accompany this knowledge and begins to understand the sacrifices made by the community to
maintain its controlled and painless way of life. The Giver explains that this is one of the reasons he is the only one who carries the
memories: to protect the rest of the community from the burden of such pain.
In this chapter, Jonas also learns about the concept of "release," a term used in his community that he begins to realize may not mean
what he previously thought. The chapter serves to deepen Jonas's understanding of suffering, the importance of memories, and the
complexities of human emotions, further isolating him from his peers and the ideals of his society.
This chapter solidifies Jonas's growing discontent with the community's choices and emphasizes his developing sense of responsibility
toward the knowledge he now possesses.

Summarizing of chapter 15

Jonas experiences the emotional weight of the memories he has been receiving.
The chapter begins with a tense moment as the Giver transmits a particularly painful memory of warfare and suffering. Jonas is deeply
affected by this memory, which leaves him feeling overwhelmed and burdened by the pain of human experience.
As the chapter progresses, Jonas learns that the community's practice of "release" involves more than just the benign term they use to
describe the process. This revelation comes when Jonas witnesses a disturbing event during a release ceremony. He sees the Giver's
memories of violence and suffering, including a scene where a soldier is killed.
This exposure to brutality starkly contrasts with the community's emphasis on maintaining peace and stability.
The chapter culminates in a moment of profound realization for Jonas as he begins to understand the true nature of release.
He is horrified to discover that release may involve the killing of those who do not conform to the community's ideals, including the elderly
and those who are not deemed suitable. This revelation deepens Jonas's sense of isolation and conflict with the values of his society.

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and those who are not deemed suitable. This revelation deepens Jonas's sense of isolation and conflict with the values of his society.
Chapter 15 serves as a critical turning point for Jonas, as he grapples with the harsh realities of human emotions and the ethical
implications of the community's choices. It emphasizes the weight of knowledge he carries as the Receiver of Memory and foreshadows
his growing determination to challenge the status quo.

Summarizing of chapter 16

Jonas receives a series of important memories that further deepen his understanding of emotions and human experiences.
The chapter begins with Jonas feeling increasingly isolated from his community, as he grapples with the knowledge of pain and suffering
that he has gained through his training.
As the Giver transmits memories to Jonas, he experiences a joyful memory of a family celebrating a holiday together. This memory evokes
feelings of warmth, love, and connection, contrasting sharply with the sterile and emotionally distant relationships in Jonas's community.
He begins to understand the significance of family and the richness of human emotions that have been sacrificed in the pursuit of
sameness.
During this time, Jonas also learns about the concept of love and the depth of human relationships. He begins to feel a longing for deeper
connections with others, especially with his friend Fiona. This realization adds another layer of complexity to his understanding of the
world around him.
The chapter highlights the stark contrast between the joy of human connection and the emotional void of the community. Jonas's growing
awareness of love, family, and the beauty of emotions sets the stage for his internal conflict as he grapples with the limitations imposed by
his society.
Overall, Chapter 16 emphasizes the importance of emotions and the experiences that shape human relationships, reinforcing Jonas's
desire for a more authentic and meaningful existence.

Summarizing of chapter 17

Jonas s feelings of isolation and discontent continue to grow as he processes the memories he has received. The chapter opens with Jonas
attending a community event where he and his friends, including Fiona and Asher, participate in a recreation of a game that involves the
concept of release. Jonas feels uncomfortable as he realizes that their game reflects the serious and tragic nature of release in their
society.
During this chapter, Jonas's friends are unaware of the true meaning of release, but he is haunted by the memory of witnessing it.
This stark contrast between his understanding and theirs emphasizes Jonas s growing sense of alienation. As he spends time with them, he
feels increasingly disconnected from their shallow perspectives and the innocence of their lives.
Jonas tries to explain his feelings to Asher and Fiona, but they are unable to grasp the depth of his emotions and the significance of the
memories he has received. This further reinforces Jonas's realization that he cannot share his experiences with them, as they have not
undergone the same transformation.
In a moment of frustration, Jonas decides to stop playing the game, highlighting his desire to distance himself from the community's
ignorance. The chapter culminates with Jonas contemplating the weight of the knowledge he carries and the burdens of being the Receiver
of Memory.
Overall, Chapter 17 underscores Jonas's increasing awareness of the complexities of life and the emotional distance that separates him
from his friends and community.

Summarizing of chapter 18

Jonas learns about the concept of release in more depth, which adds to his growing unease about his community s practices.
The chapter begins with Jonas discussing the topic of release with the Giver, who shares a significant memory that reveals the darker
reality behind this term.
The Giver explains that release is not simply a benign practice; it can involve euthanasia, particularly in the case of those who do not
conform to the community's standards or are deemed unfit. He recounts the story of a failed Receiver-in-Training who was unable to
handle the memories and emotions and was ultimately released. This memory serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences
of the community's choice to eliminate pain and complexity from life.
Jonas is horrified by this revelation, as he realizes that the community's pursuit of sameness has led to the devaluation of human life and
emotions. The chapter emphasizes Jonas's internal conflict as he grapples with the moral implications of the community's actions and the
burden of knowledge he now carries.
Additionally, Jonas begins to understand that his role as the Receiver of Memory is not just to bear the memories but also to challenge the
society's norms. This chapter deepens Jonas s resolve to question the values of his community and sets the stage for his eventual decisions
regarding the path he will take.
Overall, Chapter 18 serves as a critical turning point, revealing the darker aspects of the community s practices and solidifying Jonas's
commitment to seeking change.

Summarizing of chapter 19

Jonas learns more about the true nature of release and its implications, leading to a pivotal moment in his understanding of his
community. The chapter opens with Jonas recalling the earlier conversation with the Giver about release, which has left him feeling
increasingly troubled.
Jonas attends a release ceremony where he witnesses the process firsthand. He sees his father, who is a Nurturer, preparing for the
release of a twin baby. Jonas learns that in cases where twins are born, the community only allows one to live, considering it a matter of
maintaining order and balance. As he observes his father s seemingly gentle demeanor, he is struck by the stark reality of what release

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maintaining order and balance. As he observes his father s seemingly gentle demeanor, he is struck by the stark reality of what release
truly entails.
During the ceremony, Jonas is horrified to discover that the release is not a peaceful or humane process as the community portrays it.
Instead, it involves his father injecting the baby with a lethal dose, which results in its death. This moment is a shocking revelation for
Jonas, as he realizes that his father, whom he loves and trusts, is complicit in a system that takes lives without regard for individuality or
humanity.
This chapter marks a significant turning point for Jonas. He feels a deep sense of betrayal and anger as he confronts the reality of his
society's practices. The emotional weight of this knowledge fuels his desire to escape the community and seek a life that values genuine
emotions and individual lives.
Overall, Chapter 19 serves to deepen Jonas's internal conflict and reinforces his commitment to challenging the oppressive norms of his
society, setting the stage for the choices he will face in the final chapters of the book.

Summarizing of chapter 20

Jonas grapples with the intense emotional fallout from witnessing the true nature of release.
The chapter begins with Jonas feeling a profound sense of horror and betrayal after seeing his father perform the release on the twin baby.
This revelation leaves him deeply shaken, as he can no longer reconcile the loving image he had of his father with the reality of his actions.
Feeling overwhelmed, Jonas expresses his anger and confusion to the Giver. He is desperate to understand how such a seemingly caring
community can commit such atrocities. The Giver explains that the community s choice to eliminate pain and suffering has led to the
dehumanization of individuals, including the practice of release. He emphasizes that this is a consequence of the society s commitment to
sameness and control.
In a moment of desperation, Jonas realizes he can no longer accept the values of his community. The Giver encourages him to think about
the memories and emotions he has received, which are crucial for understanding what it means to be human. Together, they discuss the
possibility of change and the implications of Jonas s growing awareness.
The chapter culminates with Jonas making a pivotal decision: he cannot stay in a community that allows such injustices. He begins to
contemplate the idea of escape, realizing that he must find a way to break free from the constraints of his society and seek a life where
emotions and individuality are valued.
Overall, Chapter 20 serves as a critical moment of awakening for Jonas, reinforcing his resolve to challenge the oppressive norms of his
community and setting the stage for the climactic choices he will face in the final chapters of the book.

Summarizing of chapter 21

In Chapter 21 of The Giver, Jonas takes significant steps toward escaping his community in search of a life filled with genuine emotions and
experiences. After the shocking revelation about release and the betrayal he feels toward his father, Jonas becomes determined to change
his situation.
With the Giver's guidance, Jonas formulates a plan to leave the community. The Giver supports his decision, understanding that Jonas's
escape may be the only way to bring about change in the society that values conformity over individuality. They discuss the memories
Jonas possesses and how they can help him navigate the outside world.
As Jonas prepares for his escape, he realizes that he must leave the community before the upcoming Ceremony of Twelve, where he would
be assigned his lifelong role as a member of the society. This moment underscores the urgency of his decision, as he recognizes that
staying would mean resigning himself to a life devoid of true feelings and choices.
Jonas sneaks out of his home at night to begin his journey. He feels a mix of fear and determination as he ventures into the unknown,
leaving behind everything he has ever known. The chapter captures his emotional turmoil as he grapples with the weight of his decision
and the hope for a better future.
Chapter 21 marks a crucial turning point in the story, as Jonas actively takes control of his destiny, symbolizing his rejection of the
oppressive norms of his community. It sets the stage for the climax of the narrative, emphasizing themes of courage, individuality, and the
quest for freedom.

Summarizing of chapter 22

Jonas continues his journey away from the community, fully embracing the uncertainty and challenges that come with his decision to
escape. As he flees, he reflects on the memories he has received, feeling a mix of hope and fear about what lies ahead.
During his escape, Jonas faces harsh realities. He must navigate through unfamiliar terrain, enduring cold weather and fatigue. The journey
is physically demanding, and he experiences hunger and exhaustion for the first time. This struggle contrasts sharply with the comfort and
security he knew in his community, highlighting the sacrifices he is making for the sake of freedom and emotional depth.
As he travels, Jonas recalls the memories of warmth, love, and beauty that the Giver has imparted to him. These memories motivate him
to push forward, as he holds onto the hope that a life outside the confines of his community will allow him to experience true emotions
and connections.
Jonas also becomes increasingly aware of the importance of the memories he carries. He realizes that these memories are not just
burdens; they are also sources of strength and guidance. They provide him with the resilience he needs to confront the difficulties of his
journey.
The chapter culminates in a moment of decision when Jonas faces a critical choice: whether to continue his journey alone or to turn back.
Despite the fear of the unknown, he chooses to move forward, driven by the desire for freedom and the possibility of a richer, more
authentic life.
Overall, Chapter 22 emphasizes themes of courage, resilience, and the value of memories as Jonas embraces his quest for individuality and
emotional fulfillment.

Summarizing of chapter 23

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Summarizing of chapter 23

Jonas is in a desperate situation as he flees the community with Gabriel.

He is haunted by the memories of pain and the coldness of the world he is leaving behind. As they escape, Jonas experiences the physical
sensations of hunger and cold, contrasting sharply with the controlled, climate-regulated environment of the community.
During their journey, Jonas reflects on the concept of freedom and the emotions he has come to cherish, such as love and joy, but which
are absent in his former life. He worries about Gabriel's safety and well-being, especially as they face the harsh realities of the outside
world.
As they continue to evade the searchers from the community, Jonas begins to hear music and sees lights in the distance, symbolizing hope
and the possibility of a new life. The chapter concludes on an ambiguous note, leaving readers to wonder if Jonas and Gabriel will
successfully find a place of safety and warmth