The Giver: Essential Modern Classics — Content Guide for Parents

Frequently asked questions

• Is The Giver: Essential Modern Classics appropriate for a 7-year-old?

  The book includes scenes of violence, such as the euthanasia of individuals, including infants, which is described as 'released into Elsewhere.' This is a significant and disturbing aspect of the society depicted in the novel. The book contains elements that could be considered scary, particularly the concept of 'release' which involves the killing of individuals deemed unfit. This theme may be unsettling for younger readers.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have violence?

  The book includes scenes of violence, such as the euthanasia of individuals, including infants, which is described as 'released into Elsewhere.' This is a significant and disturbing aspect of the society depicted in the novel.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have scary content?

  The book contains elements that could be considered scary, particularly the concept of 'release' which involves the killing of individuals deemed unfit. This theme may be unsettling for younger readers.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have religious themes?

  No religious content is present in the book itself. While there are interpretations regarding faith and morality, these are not explicitly part of the story's narrative.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have racial/cultural content?

  Race is not a central theme in the book. The society's emphasis on 'Sameness' eliminates distinctions, including those based on race, but does not engage with racial issues explicitly.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have profanity?

  There is no profanity in the book. The society depicted does not permit cursing, and the language used is appropriate for its intended audience.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have climate change?

  There are no explicit climate themes in the book. The society's control over the environment is mentioned, but it does not engage with environmentalism or climate activism.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have sexual identity?

  The book contains mild references to sexual desire, referred to as 'stirrings,' which are managed by the community through medication. This aspect highlights the controlled nature of human emotions in the society.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have gender roles?

  The book portrays traditional gender roles through its depiction of male and female characters, with the male protagonist, Jonas, taking on a central role. The narrative suggests a post-gender society where individuality is suppressed, but does not actively critique gender roles.

• Does The Giver: Essential Modern Classics have lgbtq+ themes?

  No LGBTQ+ themes are explicitly present in the book. The narrative discusses a society that eliminates desire and choice, which includes the absence of sexual orientation distinctions, but does not explore LGBTQ+ identities directly.