The act of writing happens when there is in the author the awakening of a purpose - which may have distinct natures, such as entertaining, communicating, informing or even expressing a feeling or state of humor.
Therefore, understanding the author's purpose is a key issue for a better understanding of the subject. If you understand the purpose, you will find it easier to properly interpret writing in relation to those who do not understand the author's purpose.
The setting of “The Giver” is a dystopian, futuristic world in which war, pain, and emotion are foreign concepts. Families (or family units) consist of two parents and two children, both of whom were birthed by Birthmothers who would never see them again.