Gathering Blue, a novel by Lois Lowry, is set in a post-apocalyptic world that has transformed into a dystopian society. The story primarily takes place in a small, isolated village that is marked by its harsh living conditions and strict social hierarchies.
The village is characterized by its focus on survival, where the weak are often marginalized and the strong wield power. Lowry paints a vivid picture of a community that lacks compassion and embraces a rigid system where conformity is critical for survival.
In contrast to the village, there is also a significant location known as the Field of Leaving, which represents both an exit from the village’s harsh reality and a place of hope. Throughout the novel, the protagonist, Kira, discovers her unique talents that allow her to see beyond her community’s limitations, leading to a journey that ultimately examines the themes of creativity, resilience, and the importance of human connections.