About the Author

Lois Lowry is a two-time recipient of the Newbery Medal. She lives in Massachusetts. "From the Paperback edition."

Reviews

"Lowry returns to the metaphorical future world of her Newbery-winning "The Giver" to explore the notion of foul reality disguised as fair. . . . Readers will find plenty of material for thought and discussion here. . . . A top writer, in top form."-"Kirkus Reviews", Starred"Lowry has once again created a fully realized world full of drama, suspense, and even humor. Readers won't forget these memorable characters or their struggles in an inhospitable world."-"School Library Journal", StarredA "School Library Journal "Best Book of the Year"From the Paperback edition."

Gr 5-9-As Gathering Blue (HM, 2000) begins, a harsh, barbaric community of the future challenges the right of Kira to remain a part. Orphaned by the recent death of her mother, Kira has been cursed by a deformed leg and blessed by unsurpassed artistic talent. Facing the Council of Guardians, she pleads her case and finds an important role that plunges her deep into the heart of this enigmatic civilization. Lois Lowry, the consummate yarn-spinner, has deftly woven this cautionary tale so reminiscent of her Newbery tour-de-force, The Giver. She takes a bleak and colorless landscape, embroiders it richly with her storytelling prowess, and even treats us to an introductory spoken passage filled with insight into her thoughts and motivations for writing the story. Gathering Blue lends itself well to the medium of audiobook. The unusual-yet-familiar vocabulary used by the villagers can be recognized readily through the expert reading of actress Katherine Borowitz. The story is loquacious, mysterious, and thought provoking a must-have for young adults. The audio version is certain to be popular on circulation lists and with teachers.-Lisa Denton, J.S. Russell Junior High School, Lawrenceville, VA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.