Veronica, I did think he died, until my kids started reading the sequel! I haven't read it, though.
I remember distinctly the first time I used Giver, with a group of very smart 7th graders. So many good themes to use. Then, when I switched districts, it didn't go over so well the first time I tried it. But, eventually, I tried again and it when I gave the kids choice in a sci fi unit, there was always one group that did well with it.