
The Giver, a novel by Lois Lowry, has captivated readers since its publication in 1993. This dystopian masterpiece has not only garnered critical acclaim but also sparked a series of sequels and companion novels that expand upon its rich narrative universe. In this article, we delve into the question of how many Giver books exist, while also exploring the thematic and narrative connections that bind them together.
The Original: The Giver
The journey begins with The Giver, the first book in the series. Set in a seemingly utopian society, the story follows Jonas, a young boy who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory. As Jonas begins his training with the Giver, he uncovers the dark truths behind his community’s facade of perfection. The novel explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the cost of conformity, leaving readers with a profound sense of unease and curiosity about the world Lowry has created.
The Sequels: Expanding the Universe
Following the success of The Giver, Lois Lowry continued to explore the world she had created through a series of sequels. Each book adds depth and complexity to the original narrative, offering new perspectives and insights into the dystopian society.
1. Gathering Blue (2000)
Gathering Blue is the second book in the series, though it is not a direct sequel to The Giver. Instead, it introduces readers to a new protagonist, Kira, who lives in a different community with its own set of rules and challenges. Kira, like Jonas, is an outsider who must navigate a society that values conformity over individuality. The novel explores themes of art, creativity, and the power of storytelling, while also hinting at connections to the world of The Giver.
2. Messenger (2004)
Messenger serves as a bridge between The Giver and Gathering Blue, bringing together characters from both books. The story follows Matty, a young boy who lives in Village, a community that serves as a refuge for those who have escaped from other dystopian societies. As Matty embarks on a dangerous journey to save his friend Kira, he uncovers the dark forces that threaten to destroy Village. The novel delves into themes of sacrifice, community, and the consequences of greed, while also providing closure to some of the lingering questions from the previous books.
3. Son (2012)
Son is the final book in the series and serves as a direct sequel to The Giver. The story follows Claire, a young woman who was once a Birthmother in Jonas’s community. After giving birth to a son, Claire is reassigned to a new role, but she becomes determined to find her child. Her journey takes her through the worlds of The Giver and Gathering Blue, ultimately leading her to Village. Son explores themes of motherhood, identity, and the enduring power of love, while also tying together the various threads of the series.
Companion Novels and Short Stories
In addition to the main series, Lois Lowry has also written several companion novels and short stories that further enrich the world of The Giver. These works provide additional context and backstory, offering readers a more comprehensive understanding of the dystopian society and its inhabitants.
1. The Giver Graphic Novel (2019)
In 2019, The Giver was adapted into a graphic novel by P. Craig Russell. This visually stunning retelling of the original story brings Jonas’s journey to life in a new and dynamic way, while also staying true to the themes and tone of Lowry’s novel. The graphic novel format allows readers to experience the story in a fresh and engaging manner, making it a valuable addition to the series.
2. The Giver Quartet Box Set (2014)
For fans of the series, the Giver Quartet Box Set offers a convenient way to own all four books in one collection. This beautifully designed set includes The Giver, Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son, along with a bonus poster and a letter from Lois Lowry. The box set is a must-have for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of The Giver.
3. Short Stories and Anthologies
Lois Lowry has also contributed short stories and essays to various anthologies, some of which touch on themes and ideas related to The Giver. These works provide additional insights into Lowry’s creative process and the inspiration behind her novels. While not directly part of the Giver series, they offer valuable context for readers who want to delve deeper into the author’s body of work.
Thematic Connections: A Unified Vision
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Giver series is the way in which each book, while distinct in its narrative and characters, contributes to a larger thematic whole. Across the series, Lowry explores the tension between individuality and conformity, the importance of memory and history, and the enduring power of human connection.
1. Individuality vs. Conformity
At the heart of The Giver is the conflict between individuality and conformity. Jonas’s journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns to question the rules and norms of his society. This theme is echoed in Gathering Blue, where Kira’s artistic talents set her apart from her community, and in Messenger, where Matty must confront the forces that seek to erase individuality in Village. Son further explores this theme through Claire’s quest to reclaim her identity as a mother.
2. Memory and History
Memory plays a crucial role in The Giver, as Jonas learns about the past from the Giver. This theme is expanded upon in Gathering Blue, where Kira’s community has lost much of its history and relies on her to preserve its stories. In Messenger, the importance of memory is underscored by the threat of forgetting, as the villagers begin to lose their sense of self. Son brings this theme full circle, as Claire’s journey is driven by her desire to remember and reconnect with her past.
3. Human Connection
Throughout the series, Lowry emphasizes the importance of human connection in the face of adversity. Jonas’s relationship with the Giver, Kira’s bond with her friends, Matty’s loyalty to Village, and Claire’s love for her son all serve as powerful reminders of the strength that comes from relationships. These connections are what ultimately allow the characters to resist the oppressive forces of their societies and find hope for the future.
Conclusion: A Rich and Enduring Legacy
The Giver series is a testament to Lois Lowry’s ability to create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative universe. With four main books, a graphic novel adaptation, and various companion works, the series offers readers a rich and immersive experience. Each book contributes to a larger thematic whole, exploring the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of memory, individuality, and connection.
As we reflect on the question of how many Giver books there are, it becomes clear that the series is more than just a collection of novels—it is a unified vision of a world that challenges us to think deeply about the society we live in and the choices we make. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the Giver books offer a journey that is both timeless and profoundly relevant.
Related Q&A
Q: Is The Giver part of a series? A: Yes, The Giver is the first book in a series that includes Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
Q: Are the Giver books connected? A: While each book in the series has its own unique story and characters, they are connected through shared themes and, in some cases, overlapping characters and settings.
Q: Can I read Gathering Blue without reading The Giver? A: Yes, Gathering Blue can be read as a standalone novel, but reading The Giver first will provide additional context and enhance your understanding of the series.
Q: What is the order of the Giver books? A: The recommended reading order is The Giver, Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
Q: Are there any other books related to The Giver? A: In addition to the main series, there is a graphic novel adaptation of The Giver and various short stories and essays by Lois Lowry that touch on related themes.