Give the readers some credit Lowry… Watching The Giver devolve into this was truly disappointing. This story feels beyond forced, and it spoon feeds every single detail. We don’t need every metaphor and simile spelled out for us.

I’d recommend giving this a pass. Definitely read The Giver; and even Gathering Blue—but only as a separate work, not a sequel. Skip Messenger and Son, they aren’t worth your time.