The Reading Tub

Son

By: Lois Lowry

Summary:

In the beginning, when Claire was still living in the community, life was different to what it now is. Then came the Ceremony of Twelve, where everyone learns their assignment / future jobs. Everyone received training in their prospective field, but Claire. She was different. She was Assigned as a Birthmother and was moved to the Birthmothers’ Dormitory. During her first production, there was difficulty, and the staff carved her Product from her belly. Because of that she was decertified and transferred to the Fish Hatchery. Then the story unravels. Claire doesn't take the required pills and begins to feel love for her son. She is determined to find her boy, but the journey is long and dangerous.

Reader Enjoyment Factors:

The story is gripping and the writing is incredible. You won't put it down once you start reading.

Content Awareness Factors:

Although "clinical," the story of teen pregnancy may not be for all readers.

Young Reader Reaction

Teen 1: Lois Lowry spins a tale one may never imagine. It combines the virtues and values of an array of characters, and how one emerges as a hero. I enjoyed Son a lot. I had previously read The Giver, which was Jonas’s story. I strongly recommend that you read the other titles in The Giver Quartet, because all four characters have a story to be told, and each story is meaningful in its own way.

Young Reader Reaction

Teen 2: Son is well written, and exciting, with intriguing characters and character developments. Lois Lowry writes to ages 11-17, with stong action, and a multitude of settings. Each character is well thought out, planned, and described, and I found it interesting to watch the characters as they grew and matured.

Type of Book:
This is a thought-provoking dystopian novel for young adults. This book is about a coming of age for Claire, as she tries to find her son.

Educational Themes:

The themes are strong and any reading of this or the other books in The Giver Quartet will engender lots of discussion.

Reading Level:
5.0

Recommended Age To Read By Yourself:
11 and Up

Recommended Age To Read Together:
11 and Up

Age of child:
Teen STAR Review Team, Be the Star You Are!™

Purchase Recommendation:
Buy. This is a book you'll read again, particularly as you read the others' stories in the series.