Review: The Hunger Games (Hunger Games Series #1) by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games (Hunger Games Series #1) 
written by Suzanne Collins
published by Scholastic, Inc.

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Why did I pick this book: I read this book last year at the suggestion of my sister-in-law. I loved it. Because the movie is now out, I am reading it again before I see the movie.

Did I enjoy this book: Yes, I loved it the first time I read it. And after this second reading, I still love it every bit as much. The action in this book is fast-paced and keeps you glued to the book from the very beginning.  I can honestly say that I read this book every free chance I had both times I have read it. Even the second time around, I found it hard to put this book down to take care of the every day stuff that needed to be done. I just couldn’t wait to see what happened next!

This was the first dystopian YA book I had ever read. What a way to break into a genre!! This book was exciting, emotional, enraging, and enthralling! (I can’t believe I described this book with all ‘e’ words.) It’s hard to imagine a world like this, but this book is written so well that I can imagine a world like this – as sad as that is. Ms. Collins is an amazing writer. The world she built can be pictured clearly. I can see the absurdity of the Capitol and its citizens – what it looks like, how they dress, what they eat. I can see the despair of the districts – the poverty, the hurt, the defeat.

Katniss is a great heroine. She isn’t perfect…far from it, in fact. But she is strong, she is a provider, she is a survivor. I like her no nonsense approach to her life and her lot. She does what she needs to do in order to protect those who love her. She is funny, too. Ms. Collins writes some funny dialogue and thoughts. One of my favorite thoughts of Katniss is from Chapter 2: “Exactly how am I supposed to work in a thank-you in there? Somehow it just won’t seem sincere if I’m trying to slit his throat.”

Haymitch is fantastic. He is just like Katniss…or should I say that Katniss is just like him? They are great together and truly seem to get one another. His messages to Katniss in the arena are clear and understood by Katniss.

Peeta and Gale both love Katniss. Only one can have her. I have a favorite. I’m not going to say who it is because if you haven’t read this book, I don’t want to give anything away! However, if you haven’t read this book yet…WHY NOT??? Seriously, go get it immediately and read it!

Would I recommend it: Absolutely!!!

Will I read it again: Yes, I will. Probably once a year…especially right before the release of the movie sequels.

About the book – MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS: The nation of Panem is located in the area that was once known as North America. There are twelve districts that surround the Capitol. The districts all have a specific industry that supplies the Capital with goods. Many years ago, a rebellion against the Capitol occurred. Now, as punishment for the rebellion, each district must send two tributes – one girl and one boy between the ages of 12 and 18 – to the annual Hunger Games. The Hunger Games is a literal game of Survivor…the children must fight each other to the death in an arena created by the Gamemakers…all for the entertainment of the citizens of the Capitol. (The Games are nationally televised and promoted.)

Katniss Everdeen is sixteen years old and lives in District 12. Katniss has been providing for her mother and sister ever since her father was killed in a mine explosion. When her little sister is picked as the tribute, Katniss immediately volunteers to take her place. Little does she know that this death sentence may not be a sure thing at all. She may actually have a chance to get out of the games alive. But at what cost?

What are your thoughts on this book? Have you seen the movie?