The Giver

Product Description

When Jonas turns 12, he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver--who alone holds memories of pain and pleasure in life. Now there can be no turning back from the truth. Paperback.

Amazon.com

In a world with no poverty, no crime, no sickness and no unemployment, and where every family is happy, 12-year-old Jonas is chosen to be the community's Receiver of Memories. Under the tutelage of the Elders and an old man known as the Giver, he discovers the disturbing truth about his utopian world and struggles against the weight of its hypocrisy. With echoes of Brave New World, in this 1994 Newbery Medal winner, Lowry examines the idea that people might freely choose to give up their humanity in order to create a more stable society. Gradually Jonas learns just how costly this ordered and pain-free society can be, and boldly decides he cannot pay the price.

Customer Reviews:

A World Without Choices??.......2007-10-14

The Giver by Lois Lowry won the Newberry Award in 1994. (On a side note, it also won the Rebecca Caudill Young Reader's Award in 1996 which is an award sponsored by the state of Illinois!) I'm certainly glad I decided to read it!

"It was almost December, and Jonas was beginning to be frightened." And so starts the story of a boy that is growing up in a time and place where sameness is the way only way of life. There is no such thing as choice. When a child is born, it is placed in the hands of a Nurturer. The child isn't even named until December. Every December, there is a ceremony celebrating the year's in the life of a child. The newchild is placed with it's new family...one that is chosen for that child. Every family unit is allowed 2 children. One boy and one girl. No more, no less. As the years progress, so do the ceremonies. At 8, the child is allowed to start his volunteer hours. At 9, the child is given his bike. And at 12, the child is given his Assignment. This assignment is the job you are going to do for the rest of your life.

Jonas is nervous about the 12's Ceremony this year because he is to be assigned, and he has no idea what that assignment will be. As he sits in his position waiting, he hears the assignments of all his friends. But Jonas assignment is one that is a surprise to everyone. He is assigned to be the next "Receiver of Memories". It's one of the highest honors in the Community.

When Jonas starts his training, he meets "The Giver", the man he is replacing as a Receiver of Memories. The Giver must "give" memories to Jonas. And not just memories of the Community, but memories that have been passed from Receiver to Receiver. He is given memories of color, because there is no longer color in the world of Sameness. He is given beautiful memories of snow and family and love, all things that he has never really experienced before. But when Jonas is shown what it really means to be released, he must find the courage within himself to try to change the way of life for one newchild that is about to be released.

I thought this book was wonderful. I like dystopian books anyway. But Lowry has created a world that is structured and filled with sameness. A world that is hard to imagine. She shows us that even though the world we live in right now is filled with tough choices, at least we HAVE the right to choose. Maybe we make the wrong choice sometimes, but the alternative is not really better. And she has created a compassionate, loving and courageous character in Jonas. A character that should be admired. I can see why this book won the Newberry!! I think all young adults should read this one.

From a girl who hates sci-fi..........2007-10-13

As an avid realistic fiction reader I wholeheartedly recommend this book. This is perhaps the only science fiction/ dystopia book I have read and thouroughly enjoyed. Lowry's writing is wonderful and the story is well thought out. I loved it the first time I was introduced to it in fourth grade or so and love it some five years later. It is a quick read and time well spent.

Read this review first!.......2007-10-08

I just want to warn anyone who has yet to read this book NOT to read the review by Jedidiah Palosaari which is listed as the third review at the time of this writing (until after you've read the book). Although I think it's a well written review, it contains a spoiler! Now, for my comments... This story is provocative for sure. I read it out loud to my kids even though they're really old enough to read it for themselves. The images are vivid, and the author Lois Lowry does not shy away from the spectrum of human possibility, the good, the bad, the ugly. Lowry stirs up all kinds of moral and ethical questions in this book. There are some children's books that I love reading to my kids because they are great for the kids. This one is great even into adulthood. If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend it. It is brilliant and, as others have noted, a classic. If you're a parent, this is a good family read (more older kids or screen it first) for opening lots of discussion and an opportunity to teach what you value.

Laya Saul, author of the teen self help book "You Don't Have to Learn Everything the Hard Way"

Amazing.......2007-10-02

This book is my favorite book of all time (although the Twilight series comes quite close). It made me cry when I realized that only the Giver and Reciever had any emotions, had any love. When Jonas askes his mom if she loves him, she says there is no thing as love.... a heart breaking point of the book, when one puts him or herself in that situation. Anyone who did not like this book didn't read it with the right maturity, with an open mind.

My little brother HATES to read. He had to read this book in school, and he actually read it. He enjoyed it and bought Gathering Blue and the Messanger to read too, although he didn't quite find those two as good as this.

This book is overall clean and sincere. It makes us appricate everything so much more.

A book that stays with you.......2007-09-29

I remember reading this book in elementary school. I also remember that I hated this book. I could not stand it. As I grew older, I appreciated the nuances and messages contained in this "child" book. I recommend this book to any child or adult on what an "utopian" society could look like.

Average customer rating:

WONDERFUL
Wonderful Book
The Dream Giver
Seeking Divine Direction? Get This Book!
A Must Read for all - it will change your life

The Dream Giver
Bruce Wilkinson , and Heather Kopp
Manufacturer: Multnomah
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 159052201X
Release Date: 2003-09-03

Book Description

Bestselling author Bruce Wilkinson shows how to identify and overcome the obstacles that keep millions from living the life they were created for. He begins with a compelling modern-day parable about Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. With the help of the Dream Giver, Ordinary begins the hardest and most rewarding journey of his life. Wilkinson gives readers practical, biblical keys to fulfilling their own dream, revealing that there's no limit to what God can accomplish when we choose to pursue the dreams He gives us for His honor.

Are you living your dream— or just living your life?

Welcome to a little story about a very big idea. This compelling modern-day parable tells the story of Ordinary, who dares to leave the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream.

You, too, have been given a Big Dream. One that can change your life. One that the Dream Giver wants you to achieve. Does your Big Dream seem hopelessly out of reach? Are you waiting for something or someone to make your dream happen?

Then you’re ready for The Dream Giver.

Let Bruce Wilkinson show you how to rise above the ordinary, conquer your fears, and overcome the obstacles that keep you from living your Big Dream.

You were made for this. Now it’s time to begin your journey.

Customer Reviews:

WONDERFUL.......2007-10-24

This is an INCREDABLE book that will inspire you to think of life differently. It will encourage you to trade in mundane for purposeful, and despair for joy. Its a short one, but worth its weight in gold.

Wonderful Book.......2007-10-19

This book was given to me to read at a time in my life when I was struggling with making a huge decision. As I read and journaling my thoughts - God gave me the insight I needed to make the correct decision. I have since given this book to many people I know. It is an easy read - with a POWERFUL message! Would recommend for people of ALL ages!

The Dream Giver.......2007-09-23

I highly recommend this book and plan to purchase copies for future gifts. It is very inspirational and leads to productive self reflection.

Seeking Divine Direction? Get This Book!.......2007-09-19

If you're at a place in your life where you're questioning whether you're on the right path..or if you should be further than you are..or if you suspect you aren't all that you should be - this is a great book for you! This little charmer fell into my life when I was at a crossroads (well, ok, a mid-life crisis). I was desperately seeking God's direction, and was listening so hard I missed all the signs. It's not about achieving the dream(s) you've been after, it's about achieving the dreams God has planned for you - which of course, are far greater than we can ever imagine for ourselves. Don't waste another day...get it!

A Must Read for all - it will change your life.......2007-08-26

I first read this book in Jan 2004 and from that day on I have always rated it as the one book I would recommend for anyone to read - because it will change their life. Last year -Dec 2006 I walked into a bookshop and bought all the copies they had and gave them away to my friends as a Christmas gift. I also told them that this is the best gift I could ever give them and I know that as soon as they begin reading this book they will start listing down the names of all their friends and relatives who they will want to recommend this book too. And sure enough this is exactly what happened. I retained an extra copy for myself which I proceeded to share with people and the same thing happened. As a Toastmaster I was required to do a persuasive speech, and I chose to persuade people to read "The Dream Giver", at the end of the speech people were curiouis as to whether I was getting paid royalties for recommending it, and I told them no - this book so impacted my life that I would wish anyone I know to read this book so that they too can rekindle their dream and pursue it! Again several of those listening to me purchased the book and they agreed entirely with what I had said. I recommend this book to people of all ages - it is never too late to realize & pursue your dream! If I had the means to do it I would ensure that every family in the world had a copy of this book - it's truly an inspirational book to read!

The Only Grant-Writing Book You'll Ever Need: Top Grant Writers and Grant Givers Share Their Secrets

Average customer rating:

Grant-Writing book recommendation
Helped me through my class!
More for organizations than individuals
Outstanding Guideline
I enjoyed this book......

The Only Grant-Writing Book You'll Ever Need: Top Grant Writers and Grant Givers Share Their Secrets
Ellen Karsh , and Arlen Sue Fox
Manufacturer: Carroll & Graf
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Public Finance | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Debt & Deficits | Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Nonprofit Organizations & Charities | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Motivational | Management & Leadership | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Research | Education | Reference | Subjects | Books

Writing Skills | Writing | Reference | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 0786717548

Book Description

This is the revised and expanded edition of the most sought-after guide for everyone seeking grants: nonprofits, state and local governments, universities, school administrators, teachers, artists, and those seeking funds for scholarly and cultural enterprises. Written by two authors who have won millions of dollars in grants — and updated to include vital information and advice accumulated since The Only Grant-Writing Book You’ll Ever Need first appeared — this new edition provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for grant writers, demystifying the process while offering indispensable advice from funders and grant recipients. It includes the following.

• Guidance on developing a realistic, cost-effective, collaborative program
• Concrete suggestions (with practice exercises and examples) for approaching each section of a grant so that the proposal is absolutely clear to the funder
• A glossary of terms with any word, phrase, or concept a grant writer may need, plus fifty tips for writing a winning proposal
• Funders roundtables put you inside the minds of the people who award grants

Customer Reviews:

Grant-Writing book recommendation.......2007-09-11

This book is very well-organized, presenting the information in a step-by-step manner that makes it manageable for neophyte would-be grant-writers. I have no doubt that it will serve me well as a continuing resource even as I gain skills and experience.

Helped me through my class!.......2007-05-14

I used this book for a grant writing class I've taken and found it to be a great guide. It's written well and very user friendly. This is definately a book that I'll keep and use through the years when it comes to writing future grants! The resources in the back are helpful and it's fun taking the quizzes and realizing how much I know. Good book...worth buying.

More for organizations than individuals.......2007-04-05

It more geared towards someone writing for grants for a non-profit as opposed to artist/business grants.

Outstanding Guideline.......2007-01-10

Outstanding guideline for anyone needing advice and direction
in regards to writing proposals. Also shows how to present your
group or organization in the best light.

I enjoyed this book.............2006-11-14

This was the first grant-writing book I ever purchased. It has been some time indeed. This is a quality book, but it doesn't provide alot of sources for funding. I would suggest Government Funding and You for a more complete view. But I would very strongly suggest this book.

Average customer rating:

The Giver gives
The Giver gives
It's Worth the Read
A Fascinating Story
Not for Discerning Adults

The Giver
Lois Lowry
Manufacturer: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0385732554
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Book Description

When Jonas turns 12, he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. Now, it’s time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.

Customer Reviews:

The Giver gives.......2007-10-24

The Giver by Lois Lowry
Science Fiction

If you like books about the future, you would like The Giver. It is a good
book because it gets the reader caring for the characters. It also gives a feeling of adventure and action. The book is a very sad one because everyone is almost the same, and if they break the rules three times they have to die. This book has many feelings; it has love, anger, sadness, happiness, and pain. Lois Lowry did a good job of making you feel like you're in the story, but while you're in the story, you feel helpless. The story is about a boy named Jonas who gets a job as the new Receiver. The job of the Receiver is to keep memories for the community. While in training he learns about death, pain, and that his people are doing wrong things. So Jonas and a man called the Giver make a plan to secretly stop the community. It is hard for Jonas at first but, in the end ... sorry can't tell you that. If you like books about feelings and science fiction than this is the book for you.

The Giver gives.......2007-10-24

It's Worth the Read.......2007-10-01

Lois Lowry's The Giver has been enjoyed by generations of young adults, and older ones as well. It is a very good book with superficial and deeper meanings, and is a great study in contrasts and how our society might one day turn out. It just seems basic, written in a simplistic style. It is easy to follow, easy to understand, and fun to analyze. Deeper messages abound, and it has a few morals and interesting lessons about family, friends, and relationships tossed in as well. It also deals with the idea of being different in a world where everything feels the same. It has good development, and I highly recommend it to middle school students and anyone who hasn't read it. An old classic for modern times in a future world, it is truly generation-spanning. Having read The Giver multiple times, I still am not enthralled by it. However, I prefer elaborate stories, so don't be put off it. I myself did not love it, but it's worth being read.

A Fascinating Story.......2007-08-30

My son bought The Giver at a bookstore. After he read it he asked me to read the book because he thought it was not only a fascinating story, but very educational. I wasn't sure I really wanted to read a teen book at first, but once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. I read the whole book in one day, and I'm sorry to say but my family had to fend for themselves when it came time for dinner.

Lois Lowry does such an excellent job of describing his characters, especially Jonas, and the city where everything is controlled. This is a great read for middle school students through adults. I would gladly recommend it to all my friends.

Not for Discerning Adults.......2007-06-26

I liked it better the first time I read it, when it was called Anthem (by Ayn Rand).

The Worlds of Lois Lowry 3 Copy Boxed Set (The Giver, Gathering Blue, The Messenger)

Average customer rating:

The GIver
Great Trilogy
Connections galore
Giver
They should make movies!

The Worlds of Lois Lowry 3 Copy Boxed Set (The Giver, Gathering Blue, The Messenger)
Lois Lowry
Manufacturer: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Issues | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books

General | Literature & Fiction | Teens | Subjects | Books

All Children's Boxed Sets | Children's Books | Boxed Sets | Formats | Books

Literature | Children's Books | Boxed Sets | Formats | Books

People & Places | Children's Books | Boxed Sets | Formats | Books

Teens | Boxed Sets | Formats | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0385733895
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Book Description

When Jonas turns 12, he is singled out for special training from The Giver. Now, it's time for Jonas to receive the truth. There is no turning back.
*
Kira, an orphan with a twisted leg, lives in a world where the weak are cast aside. When she is given a task that no other community member can carry out, Kira soon realizes she is surrounded by many mysteries and secrets--and an extraordinary power of her own.
*
Matty has always been proud to be Village's Messenger. But now that Village is closing its once-welcoming doors, Matty must make one last journey through the treacherous forest, and must make a great sacrifice to save the place he loves.
*
The Worlds of Lois Lowry are brought to life through three extraordinary characters, and the unexpected connections among their lives.

Customer Reviews:

The GIver.......2007-07-26

Great trilogy. Haven't read the 2nd 2 yet, so this review is just for The Giver. I bought it for myself and my 9 year old. We both really liked it. It is written in such a way, that you envision a black and white world devoid of emotion and color which is what the author wants. It really was a great book for discussion with my child as it explores having personal choice, love/nuturing/emotions, and individuality. The back of the book has questions that help explore these areas even more. It was interesting to see a child's perspective vs. an adults. This book makes us all think about how society is and how it can be. Recommended.

Great Trilogy.......2007-07-03

This box-set is one of the most enduring trilogies I have ever read. The first book is an instant classic, The Giver. I actually read this book back in 1994, when I was in the 4th grade. I read it now again, and I am still just as enamored with it. I didn't even know there were two other books that followed until I did some research. The next two books are just as good, and the best part is that are not carbon-copies. One could actually read them by themselves, but it's so much better when you know the stories before them.

Connections galore.......2007-06-21

I had read "The Giver" some time ago, but had never read the other books in the series. I always wondered what happened to Jonas. This clears things up for me. He came into the community on the sled and became the Seer. I really enjoyed putting the pieces of the puzzle together and realizing who was who in former books and what role they play in "The Messenger." The only thing is that I wondered what happened to Gabriel...could he be the teacher? They only mention one coming in on the sled, but at the end of "The Giver," there are actually two people on it.

Giver.......2007-05-21

It's beautiful book for all family. I had a big pleasure when I red it.

They should make movies!.......2007-01-31

They should make movies of this trilogy. I adored all three of these books, though at times, they left me with a few unanswered questions. "How does Kira change her world without being killed?" for example, in Gathering Blue. Who exactly is Trademaster in Messenger and where does he go in the end? I guess Lois Lowry wanted her readers to use their own creative gifts and answer these questions for themselves. I wonder where one reviewer got the idea that Leader in Messenger arrived in Village "with an older boy who didn't survive the journey." There is no mention of a dead boy in Messenger, and it is clear to me from the descriptions given who Leader is.

Buying these books in a box set and reading them in order gives a reader the chance to see the common theme they share of society gone bad or in the wrong hands (or both) and the desperate need for things like love, compassion and creativity. Buy this set; you won't regret it. And bring on the directors and screen writers!

Average customer rating:

Not bad for the dreaded "required reading"!
An Outstanding Book with Several Flaws
Awesome book
"All pioneers have to get hard to survive."
I wanted to shake some sense into Sara's father

Bread Givers: A Novel
Anzia Yezierska
Manufacturer: Persea Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Literary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0892552905

Book Description

The classic novel of Jewish immigrants in new trade paperback format and design, with sixteen period photographs.

This masterwork of American immigrant literature is set in the 1920s on the Lower East Side of Manhattan and tells the story of Sara Smolinsky, the youngest daughter of an Orthodox rabbi, who rebels against her father's rigid conception of Jewish womanhood. Sarah's struggle towards independence and self-fulfillment resonates with a passion all can share. Beautifully redesigned page for page with the previous editions, Bread Givers is an essential historical work with enduring relevance. 16 b/w photographs.

Customer Reviews:

Not bad for the dreaded "required reading"!.......2006-11-10

This book was required reading for my history class, but it turned out to be a pretty fast and fun read. Though branded as a novel, this book reads very much like a turn-of-the-century (20th) biography of a young immigrant woman.

An Outstanding Book with Several Flaws.......2006-08-10

This book vividly portrays the culture clashes that arise when a parent remains devoted to Old World traditions and beliefs and a rebellious daughter sets out to find her own way in America. Reb Smolinsky, the family patriarch, is chronically unemployed and content to be supported by his wife and children while he spends his time in meditation and study of his beloved Torah. Sara's three older sisters find romance, but each in turn finds her chances at marriage and happiness sabotaged by their dictatorial father. Reb Smolinsky, insisting he knows best for his daughters, pairs them up instead with men they can't possibly love or be happy with. Sara decides to rebel before history repeats itself in her life, and in the face of horrendous condemnation and taunting by her father, leaves home to support herself and pursue a dream of becoming a teacher.

This is a fine story, which should have been written in third person narrative, considering the private conversations that occur in the early part of the book. Reb Smolinsky seems a bit exaggerated, and his oft-repeated citings of the Torah that say a woman without a man is less than nothing are not substantiated with book, chapter, and verse. One has to wonder, does the Torah really say such things? I tried to find proof of this, but could not find any. Also, some loose ends are left unresolved at the story's end, particularly the plot complication that ensues when Reb Smolinsky buys a grocery store in Elizabeth, New Jersey, only to find himself the victim of a clever swindle. Anyone who is only somewhat familiar with the history of the Lower East Side and the lives of early twentieth century immigrants will be left wondering if life was really this fraught with conflict, despair, and misery for daughters of Jewish rabbis unable to leave their Old World ways behind. How plausible is this story? What can we really learn from it? It is a book worth reading, nevertheless, although further reading and study will probably be needed to avoid being confused by the situations Ms. Yezierska has presented.

Awesome book.......2006-07-21

I read this book for a college English class many years ago. I just finished reading it again for about the 10th time. This book is just truely mesmorizing and captivating. You don't have to Jewish or an immigrant or a female struggling - this book is for anyone that is willing to let their mind enter a time where we have no idea what it was like first hand and to go off on a jouney. Matter of fact, all her books are wonderful as I've read them all, but Bread Givers is still my favorite. Sorry I'm not offering a critique of the book, I just simply love it and want to share it with everyone.

"All pioneers have to get hard to survive.".......2006-03-16

Anzia Yezierska's "Bread Givers" is, in a sense, two overlapping stories. The first half of the book is the melodramatic tale of an impoverished Jewish immigrant family living in the New York ghetto, a family suffering under the tyrannical and hypocritical piousness of the father. At times the foolishness and ineptitude of the father is almost comic, but the suffering inflicted on his family is harrowingly poignant. The second half is a psychologically and sociologically astute feminist coming-of-age tale, as the youngest daughter breaks from her family to re-define herself as an "Americanerin," leaving for college and eventually becoming a teacher in her old neighborhood. The broader strokes of the novel's opening give way to provocative considerations of the difficulties inherent in the narrator's at times ambivalent desires for assimilation within an alien culture and for a self-respecting independence from her own patriarchal family.

I wanted to shake some sense into Sara's father.......2005-11-05

for being such a tyrant, for spoiling his daughters' wedding plans, and for RUINING their lives -- and believe me-- that kind of stuff REALLY went on in those days! And I wanted to shake some sense into her mother for PUTTING UP WITH THIS!!!

Sara Smolinsky's life most probably parallels Anzia's real life. And if that is true, then I have the UTMOST respect for Sara/Anzia who against all odds, and especially as a woman back in the 1920's, found a place for herself and worked VERY hard to get that education and respect and "the good life" that all the middle-class American kids took for granted.

Someone reading this book today -- who has not read any books on the Immigrant experience or who has not become aquainted with Immigrant life in America in the early 20th Century -- wouldn't have a CLUE as to what it was really like back then, and to them this book would perhaps only serve to confuse or bore (!) them. Hopefully this book will not only shake readers out of their complacency, but it will encourage them to read other books about the Immigrant experience, such as "call it Sleep" by Roth.

The Bread-Givers is a great book.

A Reading Guide to The Giver (Scholastic Bookfiles)

Average customer rating:

BEST BOOK EVER!!!!!!
The Giver: Awesome book!

A Reading Guide to The Giver (Scholastic Bookfiles)
Jeannette Sanderson
Manufacturer: Scholastic Reference
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Literary Criticism & Collections | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

History & Criticism | Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books

Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0439463564

Book Description

The Giver by Lois Lowry is a favorite middle grade novel. This companion gives background on the author, including an interview, questions to guide reading, clues to themes, plot, characters, and setting of the book, a glossary, writing and other activities, and more. If you loved The Giver, you need this reading companion.

Customer Reviews:

BEST BOOK EVER!!!!!!.......2007-02-28

This was a very good, very very very good book. It was provacative, and scary, but not in a bad way. It was an alagory, which is why, if you don't understand the alagory, was boring to some people. I would reccomend that children under the age of 10 should NOT read this book without parental guidence. The only problems I had with the book were (a The ending was awful . . .it left you hanging . . and (b release . . . . the reason you should have a mentor preveiw it, or read it with you. But, the rest of the book was AWSOME!!!!!!!!!!!!! READ IT!!!!!!!!!

The Giver: Awesome book!.......2004-02-24

The Giver is an awesome book. It took me two days to read it, and when I read a book it usually takes me weeks. Its a great book that always makes you question certain things. It makes you think as your reading. I also think this book is great because it is not made for one certain age group. Anyone from junior high to adults could read this book and still enjoy it.
Lastly, the book teaches a good lesson. When you think about it, it shows how much you take advantage of the little "differences" in life. If we all of a sudden had to change into the world where the Giver lived, our whole mind set would have to change. Therefore, once I read this book and I thought about what it would be like to be a part of that community, it made me realize how important different things are, even colors.

Growing Givers' Hearts : Treating Fundraising As A Ministry

Average customer rating:

Growing Giving Hearts
Challenging and inspiring research!
Scholarly text
Not How to but Why to do Christian fundraising

Growing Givers' Hearts : Treating Fundraising As A Ministry
Thomas H. Jeavons , and Rebekah Burch Basinger
Manufacturer: Jossey-Bass
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

All Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Religion & Spirituality | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0787948292

Book Description

Here for the first time is a truly spiritual way of looking at fundraising as an opportunity to nurture current and prospective donors and facilitate their growth in faith. Growing Givers' Hearts explores how development staff, executives, and board members from across the theological spectrum can make faith-building opportunities for donors their first priority; act on their confidence in God's abundance; draw from their theological tradition in their approach to fundraising; involve a vital cross-section of staff in planning; and cultivate spiritually mature leadership.

With this innovative approach, Growing Givers' Hearts empowers readers to work in spiritually grounded, deeply creative, and professionally satisfying ways. Fundraisers in any Christian organization will find extraordinary insights in this important guide.

Customer Reviews:

Growing Giving Hearts.......2005-07-10

I found this work to be very research based. If you are a full time fundraiser in the Christian community it has useful information. If you are on a church committee, I would turn to another resource for support and information.

Challenging and inspiring research!.......2002-11-02

Do Christian organizations and development officers fundraise in a way that appeals to motives "at odds with the teachings of their faith"? Are they simply interested in getting a dollar or equally interested in nurturing the spiritual life of donors? These questions are important since, as the authors assert, "Some fundraising appeal or another is quite likely to be the first-and may be the only-contact of the unchurched with Christianity today." Does this fundraising reflect the Gospel?

Jesus warned us, "No one can serve two masters...You cannot serve both God and Money." Growing Givers' Hearts begins be surveying the theology of giving in the Hebrew Scriptures, the New Testament, and throughout the history of the Church. This initial section alone is worth the price of the book.

The largest part of Growing Givers' Hearts is based on a three-year study funded by the Lilly Endowment. Jeavons and Basinger explored six organizations that are successful at both raising funds and encouraging the spiritual growth of their donors and identified six "necessary conditions" for such a program. These organizations are: Compassion International, Union Gospel Mission of Seattle, the Catholic Charities of Cleveland, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson, San Francisco Theological Seminary, Fuller Theological Seminary, and Biola University. The six conditions are the chapter headings for "Part Two" listed below.

The final section moves from the organizational perspective to that of the individual. These chapters are a challenge and an invitation to the ministry of fundraising. Jeavons and Basinger offer specific insights into how the "necessary conditions" flow out of our daily lives.

Written for a decidedly Christian audience, Jeavons and Basinger have tried to be inclusive of the Roman Catholic, Protestant, and Evangelical traditions and vocabulary. The book is filled with concrete, but not formulaic, suggestions and practices of those that treat fundraising as ministry. These well-placed, compelling examples ground the principles in real life and make the Growing Givers' Hearts approach even more believable.

I highly recommend Growing Givers' Hearts! It a challenge and an encouragement for Christians but would probably be compelling to anyone interested in the spirituality of fundraising.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction: Fundraising and the Expression of Faith

Part One: What is Christian Fundraising?
1. Creating Resources for God's Work
2. What the Bible Says About Giving and Asking
3. A Brief History of Christian Fundraising

Part Two: Six Essential Characteristics of Fundraising as a Ministry
4. Confidence in God's Abundance
5. A Holistic Perspective on "Kingdom Work"
6. Clarity About Core Theological Beliefs
7. Giving Donors Opportunities for Participation
8. Integrated Organizational Planning
9. Spiritually Mature Leadership

Part Three: The Fundraiser's Ministry
10. Fundraising as a Calling
11. Fundraising as an Invitation to Cooperate with God's Grace

Scholarly text.......2002-01-14

A scholarly text that explores ways to bring Christianity back into fundraising. It is based on a two-year study of 7 Christian organizations (none of them parishes). It is not about the "how to" of fundraising but rather the "what if."
Not as useful for parish work as "Behind the Stained Glass Window" or "Giving and Stewardship in an Effective Church."

Not How to but Why to do Christian fundraising.......2000-11-24

As someone who is a fundraiser for a Christian organization, I found this to be a refreshing look at fundraising from an explicitly Christian perspective. It doesn't focus very much on fundraising methods, but it reflects on what should be a major goal of Christian fundraising--the continued growth of the faith of a Christian organization's supporters. That is, in the methods they use, Christian fundraisers should seek to expand their givers' faith experience--that's the ultimate goal of stewardship. The book provides numerous examples of how Christian fundraisers have pursued this goal with their donors.

The authors conducted lengthy interviews with staff in several well-regarded and successful Christian organizations, including seminaries and service organizations. The insights from these people are worth the price of the book. In addition, the authors also reviewed some of the history of Christian philanthropy, including St. Paul's exhortations of the earliest Christians.

Book Description

"As entertaining as it is thoughtful....Few contemporary writers have Weatherford's talent for making the deep sweep of history seem vital and immediate."
THE WASHINGTON POST
After 500 years, the world's huge debt to the wisdom of the Indians of the Americas has finally been explored in all its vivid drama by anthropologist Jack Weatherford. He traces the crucial contributions made by the Indians to our federal system of government, our democratic institutions, modern medicine, agriculture, architecture, and ecology, and in this astonishing, ground-breaking book takes a giant step toward recovering a true American history.

Customer Reviews:

don't waste your time.......2007-02-25

Indians = good, White People = Bad. That about sums up this err...novel. Oh, except for all the mistakes, historical innuendo that went unresearched yet passes for fact, and the author's arrogance. Rolled altogether it makes for a masterful hunk of BS.

Don't know what's true........2006-09-09

This is a good book, and like previously stated by another reviewer, it is an easy read. However, I just see too many errors throughout the pages of this book. I love any good history book as I'm working on my MA in Latin American Studies. But, this book, for all its good qualities, makes some far-fetched assumptions with neither the data nor the facts to back it up. A lot is said in this book that should have been said a long time ago, but over crediting doesn't help the situation. Basically, if I wrote this as a thesis paper, I'd be laughed at and told to try again.

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!.......2006-03-06

I chose this book to read for my history class. It is quite boring! Only about 10% of the book is interesting. It is so oddly written. The writer goes from personal experiences, to historical facts, to "Did you know?" facts and then attempts to tie it all together at the end of each chapter. Yes, some of the facts are interesting, but you don't know if they are true. He hardly talks about the Indians of America. He always refers back to the Incas or the South Africans or some other weird "Indian" that I have never heard of. I couldn't stop falling asleep while reading it either! If you don't want to be bored and confused, do not buy this book!!!!

Entertaining summary.......2005-10-11

The points made in this book are not new. You can find the same ideas expressed in other history books about the impact of "discovering" the new world on the old world. Mr. Weatherford just does it in an anecdotal style with emphasis on contributions made by the indigenous american people. What's interesting to me is some of the reviews. Whenever someone writes a book discussing the ingenuity of indian or other "colored" people reviews pop up discrediting the book off-hand saying it's politically correct propaganda. I suspect these reviews are made by white males who cling to the idea the white man is superior and non-white people should be subservient. For them any discussion of non-white people having better ideas is anathema. Some people have stated that this book is inaccurate but they don't offer credible counter arguments. Instead they nitpick about dates and other details.

Wonderful!.......2005-07-14

I found this to be one of the most informative books I've ever read, and I've read most of the classics.
When you read this book you must understand that the old adage that history is written by the conquerors is very true as is painfully illustrated in this book.
I'm of mixed Caucasion and American Indian descent. Many of the questions that I've wondered about my whole life were answered in this book. Where did all of the Inca gold go to? Why isn't Spain a major world power? Why does it seem as though most foods are native to the Americas? These are questions that are "skirted" in popular history books, giving all of the stability of modern life to the credit of "civilized" Europeans. As for the quesiton of democracy, the United States is in no sense the same type of democracy as ancient Greece (which was really a republic). If you're open minded an logical this book will blow your mind.

Planned Giving Simplified: The Gift, The Giver, and the Gift Planner(AFP/Wiley Fund Development Series) (The AFP/Wiley Fund Development Series)

Average customer rating:

Pretty basic
Planned Giving 101

Planned Giving Simplified: The Gift, The Giver, and the Gift Planner(AFP/Wiley Fund Development Series) (The AFP/Wiley Fund Development Series)
Robert F. Sharpe
Manufacturer: Wiley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Popular Economics | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Nonprofit Organizations & Charities | Industries & Professions | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

Raising Capital | Small Business & Entrepreneurship | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books

All Amazon Upgrade | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Business & Investing | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

History | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Nonfiction | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books

Professional & Technical | Amazon Upgrade | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 047116674X

Book Description

Planned Giving Simplified

A down-to-earth introduction to planned giving by a leading pioneer in the field.

In this groundbreaking book, charitable gift planning expert Robert F. Sharpe, Sr., demystifies the complex world of planned giving for not-for-profit managers. He provides a detailed blueprint for starting and building a successful planned giving program, and develops a rational framework for managing the subtle interplay of legal, administrative, and interpersonal factors involved in the planned giving process.

Central to Sharpe's proven approach is his controversial definition of the effective charitable gift planner as being not so much a fund raiser as an expert at helping potential benefactors satisfy a deeply felt emotional need. Rather than soliciting or closing on planned gifts, the planner's primary focus should be on forming relationships with donors and providing them with the means and opportunity to fulfill their desire to do good.

Using compelling case studies, Sharpe demonstrates his approach in action. He identifies the various types of planned gifts and takes you inside the hearts and minds of the planned givers themselves, revealing their primary motivations and overarching concerns. He then guides you, step-by-step, through the entire planned giving process, and concludes with a clear delineation of the organizational structures required to sustain a planned giving program.

Praise for Planned Giving Simplified

"This book is a must for all who are serious about establishing or maintaining a successful gift planning program for their institution." —Nancy L. Perazelli, CFRE Gift Planning Officer, Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa.

"In his own inimitable style, Bob Sharpe has done an admirable job of describing the planned giving process in an easy-to-understand manner. Woven throughout is the emphasis on the important human relationship between the donor and the charitable gift planner." —Walter T. Weaver, III Director, Finance Support Division, Boy Scouts of America.

"Robert F. Sharpe, Sr., has provided a comprehensive road map of the world of planned giving. He guides [readers] to the desired destination without unnecessary detours along the way. His book will be a valuable addition to the libraries of not only not-for-profit professionals, but also 'givers' who seek a better understanding of the many routes available to them in their gift planning." —Joseph H. Powell President Emeritus and Senior Consultant, Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation.

"The name Bob Sharpe is synonymous with planned giving. I don't know of anybody who knows more about it and who can better convey its importance." —Reverend Dr. Arthur Caliandro Pastor, Marble Collegiate Church, New York City.

"I really like [this book]. It is . . . elegantly simple, direct, and forthright. . . . very enjoyable." —Thomas W. Cullinan, JD Executive Director of Gift Planning, University of Maryland.

Customer Reviews:

Pretty basic.......2006-02-17

It's a basic primer on Planned Giving. Great for someone who does not know much about planned gifts, who is involved in the process, how to seek and secure gifts, and how to ensure success within an organization. The book jacket says, "A down-to-earth introduction to planned giving," which is exactly accurate.

Planned Giving 101.......2001-01-03

This is an excellent primer on planned giving. The author provides definitions and examples of many useful terms in an easy-to-read format. The examples clarify the different options available and the benefits of each. The emphasis on planned giving as a GIFT to charitable institutions is refreshing in a field that talks often of tax advantages. Mr. Sharpe highlights the human side of planned giving, noting the importance of establishing a relationship with donors, and acknowledging gifts.

As a former life insurance salesperson, the author is somewhat biased in favor of life insurance products, However, he does provide numerous illustrations of all types and realistic scenarios, as well as a wealth of experience.

The format is clear, and topics are covered well and methodically. Mr. Sharpe's organization of subjects makes this an ideal primer - think of it as a textbook for Planned Giving 101. This is a good source for the professional or organization just starting to consider planned giving, and a wonderful reference for those with more experience.

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books