Listen, it is very productive for my shelves. I have been looking for ways to make my storage more efficient, and this has truly been a game-changer. The organization and accessibility that it provides have made my life so much easier. I no longer have to spend time rummaging through a cluttered mess to find what I need. Everything has its place, and it is all neatly arranged on my shelves. It has not only saved me time but also reduced my stress level. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking to improve their storage situation. You will be amazed at how much of a difference it can make. Give it a try and see for yourself!

2.5 stars (rounded up)

Uh…what on earth did I just finish reading? As I look back, I'm not entirely certain if any of it truly made sense. However, I will do my best to pour out my thoughts into a somewhat coherent review and attempt to be as nice as possible.

So, allegedly, Messenger is the third installment of The Giver series. It occurs many years after Gathering Blue, with Matty as the main protagonist in this tale. Remember Matt, the energetic and endearing little tyke from the second book with that cute accent? Well, he's all grown up now and has transformed into the two-syllable Matty! Hooray!

The story is set in a place called Village, which stems from the previous book and is supposed to be a safer and more inclusive community or settlement where all kinds of people immigrate to start anew. In Village, they are kind to one another, and flaws that would have otherwise led to punishment by death in prior communities of this universe are accepted here.

All of this sounds fine until certain other elements come into play. There are attempts to connect the main character Jonas from the first book with the events of the second book, but it all just starts to give me a headache as I realize how none of it actually makes any sense. Jonas from The Giver is clearly Jonas, even though it's never explicitly stated; he is instead referred to as "leader." Gabe is only briefly mentioned. There goes the fun of an open ending or a logical conclusion to The Giver. There are also some strange mentions of things like the Trade Mart and the Forest that never receive full explanations. Then you have Kira from the second book return, and her gift, which was so "underwhelming" before, has been elaborated into something more special than previously thought. Why? I'm not even sure at this point. I'm beginning to understand why I never heard much about this "series" and most definitely why they never made a second movie. It would have bombed with terrible ratings. I admit the ending was a bit tragic and all, but I didn't really feel a strong enough connection to the story to care too deeply. Frustration, instead, prevailed.

I have one more book to go to complete the series. Can I do it? It seems that the final installment may relate back to the beginning roots of the series where The Giver took place, so I might be able to force myself to keep reading as that was by far the best book in the series. Ah! Being a completionist is a difficult life to lead! If there were more than one book left in the series, though, I would definitely rather choose to live in a dystopian society for a year as that would be an easier punishment to endure at this point!!

Anyway, I found a way to complete another category challenge for my 2024 Monster Mash Challenge, so the book wasn't a total waste!

|Invisible Man Category|

◇ Read a book under 200 pages. ✔️

I truly did love this book. It was such a delight to discover what became of Jonas and Gabe after the heartrending conclusion of The Giver. However, one criticism I have is that although I found the sub-plot of the Trademart to be extremely interesting, it seemed to simply fade away without any proper explanation. For instance, where did the Trader come from? How was he able to extract a person's innermost self? Was it some sort of magic? Kira, Leader, and Matty all appear to possess magical powers. But where did their powers originate from? Their world seems to be similar to ours, with references to Shakespeare and different periods of our history. Yet, in our world, we have no magic. So, where did it come from in theirs?

I really liked the allegorical aspect of people trading what is truly important, such as their souls, in exchange for things like the removal of a birthmark, being taller, younger, less bald, better looking, pretty furniture, or a slot machine. It seems to mirror our own society, where being beautiful is often valued more highly than kindness and intelligence. Just watch an episode of Real Housewives of anywhere and you'll see this. People often bankrupt themselves in the pursuit of material goods that they can't afford.

All of the books in this series are allegories. The Giver demonstrated what occurs when people attempt to prevent any painful experience from ever happening to the people in its community. Gathering Blue showed a corrupt society where people had forgotten how to care for one another. And Messenger illustrated how a society that was initially based on caring principles could become corrupted. I am eagerly looking forward to reading Son, the final book in this series.

3 Stars for Messenger: Giver, Book 3 (audiobook) by Lois Lowry read by David Morse.

This particular installment in the Giver series was somewhat of a letdown. There didn't seem to be a substantial story line in this one. It's really frustrating because the first book was truly excellent, captivating readers from start to finish. Now, the question lingers: should I even bother with the fourth book?

The lack of a strong narrative in Messenger makes it a bit of a struggle to get through. While David Morse's narration is decent, it can't quite make up for the shortcomings of the story. It's a shame because the potential was there, especially after the promising start with the first book.

Perhaps the fourth book will redeem the series and bring back the magic that was present in the beginning. But for now, I'm left with a sense of disappointment and uncertainty about whether it's worth investing my time in the next installment.

Ok you guys, Messenger is truly AWESOME!!!!!! It ingeniously brings together the first two books in the series.

Let me explain. The Giver tells the story of Jonas, a young boy in a seemingly perfect community. Then we jump to the next book, Gathering Blue, which is about Kira, a girl with a special talent living in a different world. At first, it might seem like there's no connection between the two books. WHAAATTT?!?! I mean, Gathering Blue was a great read on its own, but it was really hard to relate it to The Giver. Because of this, it may not seem absolutely necessary to read the books in order. BUUUUUUUTTTTT... Messenger changes everything! It masterfully weaves together the storylines of The Giver and Gathering Blue, making it all make sense!

So, now that I see what Mrs. Lowry did, I have to change my judgement and declare that you should definitely read the books in order. ;) Messenger actually continues where Gathering Blue left off (yes, it's a shocker!) with the story of a boy named Matty. Matty lives in a place called Village and has the important job of carrying messages back and forth between different "colonies" through the mysterious Forest. Dude, let me tell you, the Forest is weeeeeiirrrddd. If you get a warning from the Forest, it's basically DOOM TO YOU IF YOU GO BACK IN!!!!!! Matty's story is incredibly interesting because he can go into the Forest and has NEVER gotten a warning, which is why he is the Messenger! Hence the name of the book. =P It was a fast-paced read that never once got boring or dragged. I highly recommend it!

For those of you who have read it, let me share my feelings. MATTY DIES??????????????? My heart was completely crushed into billions of pieces, ground into heart puree, and poured down the drain! "Whyyyyyyyyyyyy" my tiny, pathetic, and weak soul cries out in sorrow. WHYYYY!!! I mean, it's just so mean for a main character to die! Even if it is to save a corrupted village! Speaking of which, man, I totally caught that plot twist on the whole trading dilemma. I told my family, "They're selling their SOOOOUUUULLLSSS! I know it!" Then BOOM! They were indeed selling their deepest selves. Watch me do my dance of swag. Seriously though, that was just creeeeeepy....*shudder*

ANNNNNNDDDD.... *swoon* Jonas is back! *swoon*



Ok you guys! Read this book please so we can discuss it! :)

This book, although not quite on par with The Giver, was by no means a disappointment. In fact, it was significantly better than Gathering Blue. I truly believe that almost any book could outshine Gathering Blue.

The setting of the Village and the way it was run added an interesting layer to the story. Matty, who was the only redeeming quality from Gathering Blue, takes center stage in this book. He is an extremely likable and fascinating character. The element of danger and the sickening state of the forest created a palpable sense of tension throughout the book. The mysterious Trademarte was also expertly crafted.

However, the ending was rather sad. It left me with a feeling of melancholy and a sense of what could have been. Despite this, the overall quality of the book was high, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging read.

Guys, this book has truly touched my heart. I can't get enough of it. Fun fact: this is actually the first book I read in the series, purely by accident of course. I had no idea it was part of a series, and this is one of the reasons I became so particular about making sure I had the first book in a series XD.

I first read this book in fifth grade. It was on the recommended reads shelf in my school library, and I vividly remember experiencing this story for the first time. Matty has stayed with me for many, many years. This story twists and turns, tugging at your heartstrings. I tell you, listening to the audiobook for the first time, wheeeww! I just knew it would have the same impact on me again.

It was especially interesting to reread this book after rereading Gathering Blue. Matty was always my favorite character in that book too, but I'm not sure if it's because I read this one first or not. Nevertheless, he's still my favorite. He's such a cheerful and kind soul with a generous heart. He's a charming boy who makes my big sister heart swell with pride.

Now, let's talk about Village. Another reason this story has always held my heart is because of the stunning execution of the thematic material. It's no secret that Lowry can skillfully explore meaningful themes with incredible depth. Her stories are poignant and leave a lasting mark. I once saw someone say that her stories are deceptively simple, and that's such an accurate description.

The exploration of selfless sacrifice and the slippery slope of creeping selfishness in this story is truly astounding. I have never forgotten the tone, depth, and warning of Messenger, and I hope I never do. This beautiful, small story has a heart as big as Matty's. Ugh, I'm getting emotional just thinking about it!

Village has such a distinct culture. The people are welcoming and open-armed. They are service-oriented, broken individuals who have come together to protect and provide for the innocent, the wounded, and the fragile. But there is also a cunning darkness that threatens these loving people. The poor choices they make are like a mirror, challenging readers to examine their own hearts. This little book challenges me to be better, to be more self-sacrificing, to welcome others, and to show the utmost compassion. It challenges me to guard against the wickedness of our fallen world. And for that, I will always love this powerful story.

I also love seeing Jonas, Kira, Gabe, and Christopher again. These characters were my friends when I was an outcast and had no friends of my own. This book welcomed me and wrapped me in warmth and truth. I love the setting that feels so real, as if I could step into it myself. And I love the characters who seem so alive, as if they're speaking directly to me. I love the depth of the themes and the power of the story. And God bless little Matty, for his story is forever imprinted on my heart.

Content-wise, there's no swearing, only some mild fantasy violence, and nothing more than a schoolkid crush in the romance department. But the themes, as I've already raved about, are truly moving. I wish every kid would read this book - and there are a lot of adults who could learn from it too!! This is genuinely a book that I could (and have been very tempted to) reread the moment I finish it. Just writing this review makes me want to pick it up and read it again. There are few books that I can recommend as highly as this one.

5 stars. I truly cannot fathom a single aspect of this book that I disliked. IT WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. It was brimming with surprises, twists, allegories, and more. Ugh, I'm so terrible at writing reviews for books that I truly adored. Because all I can do is fangirl and chatter incoherently. :''') But it's okay.

I'm unable to even create a list of likes and dislikes because I LOVED EVERYTHING. Even the ending, which shattered my heart into tiny pieces. *cries into a pillow* The characters were rich with depth and emotion — each had their own distinct voices and personalities. I adored how the characters from THE GIVER were finally reintroduced into the story (AT LAST, A BIT OF CLOSURE *gasps desperately and hugs Jonas*). Matty was undoubtedly my favorite. His character development was exemplary, a perfect blend of strength and gentleness. His gift was captivating, and I never expected the ending… *cries some more* It was so bad that it was good. And the allegories of the Forest and how it related to the spiritual changes in the people of the Village… ASDFGHJKL, yes, MMMHMM. It made me think deeply. And I have an absolute passion for books that make me think.

Just like THE GIVER, I couldn't tear myself away from this book. It was by far my favorite in the series so far…not sure if that means I'm getting accustomed to the lack of explanatory endings or something. :') Oh well. I can handle a little confusion. *runs off to read book 4*

4.5 Stars

I am truly in love with this series.

It felt as if, at long last, we had arrived at a community within this new "Giver" world that had things figured out correctly. Everyone was loving and respectful.

Alas, my friend, all was not as it seemed. There was the Trade-master.

My friends, what would you trade? Would you trade your sanity, your love, your very true self for a bit of fun and games? When the world takes a turn for the ugly, we require a hero. One who is willing to make sacrifices.

This is a great story, with some tie-ins that assist in propelling the first book forward and bringing our world full circle.

I am so excited for the last book and to be free from this darkness.

I can't wait to see how the story concludes and what awaits the characters in the final installment. Will the hero succeed in vanquishing the darkness and restoring peace and harmony to the world? Only time will tell.

Until then, I will continue to eagerly anticipate the release of the last book and hope that it lives up to my expectations.

Have you ever returned to one of your beloved childhood towns after a long absence?

You excitedly take your partner to your all-time favorite pizza shop, which you remember as having the *world's best pizza*.

However, to your disappointment, you discover that the pizza shop no longer offers the cool twisty crust.

Thankfully, the flavor seems decent, so you decide to stay.

As you look around, you notice that the good video games are gone, and Fox News is playing on the TVs instead of Extreme Sports.

To make matters worse, as you gaze at the counter, you realize that they are pulling the "pizza crust" out of a freezer, and the sauce is coming from plastic bags.

You try to convince yourself that it's okay, that it's just different, and that the pizza is still good.

But when you take a bite, you realize that it's REALLY BAD.

Yet, you keep eating, because you remember how delicious it used to be and think you might have just gotten a bad slice.

As you chase the last remnants of your childhood joy, you find yourself with a belly full of hot garbage and wallowing in your own tears.

In my personal opinion, that's what this book was like.

It was truly a pleasure to witness the convergence of the stories from The Giver and Gathering Blue in Messenger. However, I couldn't help but feel that the story itself was somewhat lacking.

In Messenger, not an abundance of events took place. I'm left uncertain as to whether it effectively conveyed the intended message. Mostly, I relished the opportunity to see the characters from the other books engage with one another. Nevertheless, I wasn't overly invested in the actual narrative.

I'm inclined to believe that I should have halted my reading after The Giver. It stood as a powerful book independently, and these companion novels simply don't reach the same lofty level.

Perhaps if Messenger had offered a more engaging plot and a more profound exploration of its themes, it could have lived up to the expectations set by its predecessors. As it stands, it feels like a somewhat disappointing addition to the series.

Overall, while the concept of bringing the characters and stories together was interesting, the execution in Messenger left something to be desired.

I think this is by far the most uninteresting book in the series.

Very little actually took place. Although we did receive one revelation. Matty is a healer.

Other than that, I spent the majority of this book feeling bored.

The story seemed to lack excitement and progression. There were no major plot twists or events that really grabbed my attention.

I was hoping for more action and adventure, but unfortunately, this book failed to deliver.

I would rate this book a 5 out of 10. It was not terrible, but it definitely could have been better.

Maybe the next book in the series will be more engaging and interesting.