What a great book to start with. I love the ending for it does generate some great class discussions. There is a sequel to the book but I've not read it (I teach 7th grade science but taught reading a couple of years ago when we were in a pinch). I do know there is a great activity book that goes along with The Giver that we picked up at our local Parent-Teacher store. Enjoy your summer job, the girls (they are so luck to have you as a teacher and mentor). Keep us posted on your helment project.