65 pages • 2 hours read
Messenger
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Book Brief
169
Novel • Fiction
Village • Dystopian Future
2004
YA
10-14 years
720L
Super Short Summary
Messenger by Lois Lowry follows Matty, a teenage boy living in a utopian village where everyone is welcomed. As Matty discovers his healing ability, his village begins to change due to the sinister Trade Mart, where villagers trade parts of themselves for material gains, leading them to become selfish and unkind. Matty embarks on a perilous journey to save his village, ultimately using his gift to heal and restore the community.
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Hopeful
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
146,197 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Messenger by Lois Lowry is praised for its deep themes of community and sacrifice, resonating with readers through its engaging storytelling. The book is noted for its vivid, thought-provoking prose, continuing the captivating world-building from Lowry's previous works. However, some critics feel the pacing lags at times, and certain characters lack development. Overall, a compelling read for dystopian enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Messenger?
Readers who enjoy dystopian and coming-of-age stories will appreciate Messenger by Lois Lowry. Fans of Lois Lowry's own The Giver series, as well as those who enjoyed Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid’s Tale and Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games, will find this novel's exploration of community and individuality compelling.
146,197 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Seer
Seer
Matty's adoptive father and mentor, a blind man known for his insight and moral guidance who originally came to Village after suffering from a brutal attack.
Leader
Leader
The young and wise leader of Village, known for his "piercing" blue eyes and special ability to "see beyond"; he listens to others and promotes kindness and honesty.
Mentor
Mentor
The local schoolteacher known for his previously kind nature, now experiencing mysterious changes in his appearance and behavior, which coincide with events in Village.
Kira
Kira
Seer's biological daughter with a keen talent for weaving and foresight; she plans to join Matty and her father but first works to improve her community.
Jean
Jean
The daughter of Mentor, initially seen as flirtatious, who grows close to Matty and confides in him about troubling changes she observes in her father.
Ramon
Ramon
Matty's friend who enjoys fishing and gaming, whose family experiences health issues that are tied to mysterious trades in Village.
169
Novel • Fiction
Village • Dystopian Future
2004
YA
10-14 years
720L
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