Son — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
When the young girl washed up on their shore, no one knew she had been a Vessel. That she had carried a Product. That it had been carved from her belly. Stolen.
Claire had had a son. She was supposed to forget him, but that was impossible. When he was taken from their community, she knew she had to follow. And so her journey began.
But here in this wind-battered village Claire is welcomed as one of their own. In the security of her new home, she is free and loved. She grows stronger. As tempted as she is by the warmth of more human kindness than she has ever known, she cannot stay. Her son is out there; a young boy by now. Claire will stop at nothing to find her child . . . even if it means trading her own life.
With Son, the two-time Newbery Medal–winning Lois Lowry has spun another mesmerizing tale in this thrilling and long-awaited conclusion to The Giver.
“Claire’s story stands on its own, but as the final volume in this iconic quartet, it holistically reunites characters, reprises provocative socio-political themes, and offers a transcending message of tolerance and hope.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Frequently asked questions
Is Son appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book contains depictions of societal evil, including themes of neglect, abuse, and implied sexual assault, particularly in the context of a dystopian society. These elements are significant to the plot and character development. The book presents a dark and frightening world, including themes of control and suffering, which could be unsettling for younger readers. The atmosphere is described as significantly darker than previous works in the series.
Does Son have violence?
The book contains depictions of societal evil, including themes of neglect, abuse, and implied sexual assault, particularly in the context of a dystopian society. These elements are significant to the plot and character development.
Does Son have scary content?
The book presents a dark and frightening world, including themes of control and suffering, which could be unsettling for younger readers. The atmosphere is described as significantly darker than previous works in the series.
Does Son have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. While Lois Lowry's background includes Protestant influences, this does not reflect in the narrative of 'Son.'
Does Son have racial/cultural content?
No explicit racial themes or discussions present in the book. Search results focus on broader societal issues and do not indicate race as a central theme in 'Son.'
Does Son have profanity?
No profanity detected in the book. Search results reference other media and discussions about profanity but do not indicate its presence in 'Son.'
Does Son have climate change?
No climate themes present in the book. Search results reference environmental discussions unrelated to the narrative of 'Son.'
Does Son have sexual identity?
The narrative includes implications of sexual abuse and complex themes surrounding personal relationships and motherhood, suggesting a nuanced exploration of these topics.
Does Son have gender roles?
The book explores themes of motherhood and societal roles, particularly through the character of Claire, who navigates her identity within a dystopian context. This suggests a critique of traditional gender roles, though it may not fully engage with feminist themes.
Does Son have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters explicitly mentioned in the book. Search results focus on general discussions about LGBTQ+ characters in media, not specific to 'Son.'
