When I first read this book I was only 12 years old. Needless to say I'm not sure I grasp the whole concept of the book at such a young age. Now that I am nearing 26 I have reread this book and realized how much I truly did not understand and how haunting this book really is and why it is a must read along side 1984 and A Brave New World. 
 Lois Lowry tells a story of a community that is past socialism and past totalitarian ideals and in a manufactured community. This community is so bleak yet it seems to peaceful and serene that it is calming when you read. In fact I felt something different than what I have to other dystopian literature, a near sense of want of something so utopian. However, this is quickly diminished as it is quickly realized that while under the cover of a utopian society it is truly a distopian society. 
 The Giver is so profound and should be removed from the ALA's banned list. It should be given to young adults to read and understand that utopian societies are not at all what they appear to be. There should be the understanding that being all the same is dull and lifeless and that individuality should be accepted.