Today we read chapters 18-mid 20, and learned (finally!) was "release" was.
We also discussed a major theme of the book.
Loss of Innocence
Found in almost every "coming of age story" ( a story where a character grows up)
When a child realizes that the world is flawed and not perfect. By shattering their previous opinions on the world, they are forced to see the world through more grown-up, mature eyes.
*Example: Jonas finds out that his father is, in fact, murdering the newchildren, instead of "releasing" them to "Elsewhere" as he had previously thought.
We also found out that the previous receiver of memory was named Rosemary, and she had chosen to have herself "released" after experiencing feelings of loss, depression and loneliness. We are not sure if she knew being released meant dying, or if she accidentally committed suicide.
IMPORTANT UPCOMING ASSIGNMENT DATES:
Friday April 1st: Giver Vocab and Spelling Quiz
Friday April 8th: Giver packet due
Friday April 8th: Giver Final Test
