The Giver by Lois Lowry (1993)Read about another entry on the list.
The book that introduced the concept of dystopian societies to many Young Adult readers, The Giver is a treasured, timeless classic. Set in a “utopian” society that has no color or emotion, readers are plunged into a sterile world with no pain—but also, no joy. Protagonist Jonas is eager to learn what his role in his Community will be before learning he will be the sole keeper of all memory from before society was rendered “perfect.” Reeling from the forbidden knowledge, Jonas soon learns there is a price to pay for perfection. This book is recommended for young adult readers and those seeking to be introduced to Dystopian fiction.
The Giver made Boutayna Chokrane's ten top YA books list, J.S. Dewes's list of five great books that do just fine without traditional villains, Carolyn Quimby's list of the 38 best dystopian novels everyone should read, W.L. Goodwater's top five list of books with manipulated memories, the Tor Teen blog's list of eleven top YA dystopian novels, Jeff Somers's top five list of science fiction novels that really should be considered literary classics, Jen Harper's top ten list of kids' books from the ’90s that have proven to be utterly timeless, John Corey Whaley's top ten list of coming of age books for teens, Shaun Byron Fitzpatrick's list of thirteen top, occasionally-banned YA novels, Guy Lodge's list of ten of the best dystopias in fiction, film, art, and television, Joel Cunningham's list of six great young adult book series for fans of The Hunger Games, and Lauren Davis's top ten list of science fiction’s most depressing futuristic retirement scenarios.
Coffee with a Canine: Lois Lowry & Alfie.
--Marshal Zeringue