The story follows a young girl named Kira, who lives in a society that values conformity and punishes weakness. After her mother dies, Kira faces the threat of being abandoned due to her physical disability—a twisted leg that makes it difficult for her to walk. However, she possesses a unique talent for weaving, which earns her a place in the community's Council of Guardians.
As Kira navigates her new life, she learns about the harsh realities of her society, including the fate of those deemed unworthy. She meets other characters, such as Thomas, a boy with a talent for carving, and Jo, a gifted singer. Together, they uncover the truth about their society and the importance of preserving memories and emotions through art.
"Gathering Blue" serves as an exploration of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity while existing as part of a broader narrative initiated in The Giver. The two books together form a rich tapestry that examines the complexities of human experience in dystopian settings.