Although this book could very easily stand alone, apart from The Giver, the juxtaposition between the two makes the reading so much more powerful. 
 This story follows Kira through the loss of her mother, to the potential of being discarded by her village for being "disfigured". She is conveniently "saved" by their form of government, so she should be grateful, right? Grateful enough to do what she's told and ask no questions. 
 This is another fascinating look at a dystopian future from Lois Lowry, and, just as with the first book, the second would be a perfect book club or classroom read.