Students sometimes resist the history lessons their teachers try to impart; challenging the purpose and relevance of the information being shared. However, reading "The Giver" can help to bridge the gap between students accepting and rejecting the lessons of history while learning to value the skills such as citizenship and awareness associated with the study of history. The story helps students see the ideals exemplified by the events in their textbooks. In this paper, the author will summarize "The Giver"; discuss the metaphor of the Giver through the work of historians; give an overview of historical thinking skills that will be used a lesson framework; and offer suggested lessons plans. (Contains 1 figure and 18 notes.)