Maisie VanNess, Staff Writer

At the end of the book The Giver, did you ever wonder what happened to Jonas and Gabriel? Did you ever wonder if they made it to Elsewhere? If they were dead? Alive? Gathering Blue, Messenger and Son, three companion novels to The Giver by Lois Lowry, continue the story. 

All 6th graders have read The Giver. If you’re looking for something new by Lois Lowry, check out these options!

Gathering Blue – Kyra is crippled. She was born with a twisted leg which makes her unable to walk without a walking stick. Her mother prevented the village from taking her to the field when she was born, but now her mother is dead, and the other women want Kyra gone so their toddlers can use her property as a play-pen. But when Kyra’s life is spared because of a mysterious job offer, she moves into a building next to Thomas, a skilled woodcarver. Life is good. But is everything as it seems?

Messenger – Matty wants to be Messenger when he grows up. He takes pride in being the only one able to navigate through Forest more than once. His life isn’t bad either. After running away from his old home, he lives with Seer, the blind man. But times are changing in Village. Trademart has changed many minds for the worse, and Village is no longer the peaceful, helpful place it was before. Can Matty save everything before it’s too late?

Son – Claire was assigned Birthmother when she was 12 years old. It was a very important job, her parents had told her. But something goes wrong, very wrong. Her child is stolen from her. Claire is transferred to the Fish Hatchery. But she can’t stop seeing him. She realizes she must find him, whatever it takes. Whatever the cost.