Description In Lois Lowry’s Newbery Medal–winning classic, twelve-year-old Jonas lives in a seemingly ideal world. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver does he begin to understand the dark secrets behind his fragile community. Life in the community where Jonas lives is idyllic. Designated birthmothers produce newchildren, who are assigned to appropriate family units. Citizens are assigned their partners and their jobs. No one thinks to ask questions. Everyone obeys. Everyone is the same. Except Jonas. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory does he begin to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile community. Gradually Jonas learns that power lies in feelings. But when his own power is put to the test—when he must try to save someone he loves—he may not be ready. Is it too soon? Or too late? Told with deceptive simplicity, this is the provocative story of a boy who experiences something incredible and undertakes something impossible. In the telling it questions every value we have taken for granted and reexamines our most deeply held beliefs. A powerful and provocative novel. —The New York Times Wrought with admirable skill— the emptiness and menace underlying this Utopia emerge step by inexorable step: a richly provocative novel. —Kirkus, starred review Lowry is once again in top form raising many questions while answering few, and unwinding a tale fit for the most adventurous readers. —Publishers Weekly, starred review The simplicity and directness of Lowry’s writing force readers to grapple with their own thoughts. —Booklist, starred review The theme of balancing the values of freedom and security is beautifully presented. —The Horn Book Magazine, starred review
