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65 pages 2 hours read

Lois Lowry

Messenger

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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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 this

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.

Book Details
Pages

169

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Village • Dystopian future

Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

720L

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