THIS WEEKEND: The Giver‘s Brenton Thwaites and Odeya Rush at Cherry Hill Mall

Fans of all ages were invited to immerse themselves in the world of new book-to-film sci-fi flick The Giver, at a special event at the Cherry Hill Mall Friday. Guests took part in various activity stations, like spin art, hair-chalking, nail-painting, a candy bar, photo booth and contests by Wired 96.5.

After about an hour the film’s young stars Brenton Thwaites and Odeya Rush showed up to participate in a Q&A and meet-and-greet, where fans were able to get photos with the actors. During the Q&A, Thwaites and Rush admitted they hadn’t read the book before being cast, which brought groans from the fans—some of whom told me they read it twice.

A fan photo-bombs my shot of Odeya Rush and Brenton Thwaites

The Giver stars Odeya Rush and Brenton Thwaites during the Q&A.

Amya Jones enjoys the hair-chalking as her mother looks on.

Matthew Rogers, Nicolly Santos, and Eduarda Felix

Kids scribble their names on a large backdrop.

Wired 96.5 had several contests in which kids could participate.

Devon, Amelia. and Lauren received temporary tattoos on their legs and arms.

Lisa and Jaelyn strike a pose at The Giver photo booth.

Alex and Kaitlyn

Picking up rock candy at The Candy Bar

Megan and Tracy

Sisters Amanda and Camila create art at the spin-art machine.

Cup competition hosted by Wired 96.5

Breanna and Emma

The Giver opens nationwide on Friday, August 15, and is based on Lois Lowry’s beloved young-adult novel of the same name, which was the winner the 1994 Newbery Medal and has sold over 10 million copies worldwide. The film also stars, Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep and Taylor Swift. Check out the trailer below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJNNugNe0Wo