"A powerful and provocative novel." – New York Times
"Wrought with admirable skill–the emptiness and menace underlying this Utopia emerge step by inexorable step: a richly provocative novel." – Kirkus Reviews (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)
"Lois Lowry has written a fascinating, thoughtful science-fiction novel. The story is skillfully written; the air of disquiet is delicately insinuated. And the theme of balancing the virtues of freedom and security is beautifully presented." – Horn Book (starred review)
"The Giver has things to say that cannot be said too often, and I hope there will be many, many young people who will be willing to listen. A warning in narrative form." – Washington Post