The Giver: The Graphic Novel

By Lois Lowry

Adapted and Illustrated By P. Craig Russell

New York, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019. Graphic Novel.

Life has always been simple for Jonas growing up. All of his decisions have been made for him. The world around is black and white and devoid of emotion. All of that changes when Jonas reaches his ceremony of twelve. As all of his other friends are assigned to the usual jobs of caretakers, nurturers, and leader of recreation, Jonas receives the honored position of Receiver of Memories. As Jonas begins his training with the Giver, he begins to see what the world used to be like before it was so controlled by their leaders. He sees both the good and the bad and begins to experience emotion. Once he discovers what has been missing, he comes up with a plan to return the community to the way it was before.

This classic Newbery Award-Winning book has now been adapted into a graphic novel. With beautiful illustrations that bring the words to life, Craig Russell creates a great representation of the story of The Giver. An impressive attention to detail is shown in the illustrations and the retelling of the story, which will keep the reader engaged until the end. For those who are more visual learners or love graphic novels, this is a great option to explore.

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